The Florida Department of Health has not identified data suggesting an imminent or chronic health hazard at this time. The Florida Department of Health will continue to review all available data.

Health concerns and health problems reported include an array of respiratory problems, nosebleeds, irritated eyes, and headaches.  Of very serious concern is the possibility that the Chinese Drywall is emitting excessive amounts of hydrogen sulfide fumes, which can cause extreme irritation, unconsciousness, and even death.

The following are effects of sulfur gases:

Sulfur emissions cause a wide variety of health and environmental impacts because of the way it reacts with other substances in the air.  Particularly sensitive groups include people with asthma, children, the elderly, and people with heart or lung disease.

Sulfur emissions in the air can cause temporary breathing difficulty for people with asthma.  Longer-term exposures to high levels of sulfur gases and particles may cause respiratory illness and aggravate existing heart disease.

Sulfur reacts with other chemicals in the air to form tiny sulfate particles.  When these are breathed, they gather in the lungs and are associated with increased respiratory symptoms and disease, difficulty in breathing, and premature death.

 Sulfur and nitrogen oxides have reacted with other substances in the air to form acids.

Continued exposure over a long time may also be harmful to plants and animals.

Sulfur accelerates the decay of building materials and paints, including metals.