Jersey Considers Costly Bloodletting to Combat PFAS Contamination
High levels of PFAS, from firefighting foam used at Jersey’s airport, have been detected in the blood of many islanders, exceeding safe thresholds and potentially causing serious health issues. As a result, the government, advised by an independent scientific panel, is exploring bloodletting as a treatment option, alongside the drug cholestyramine, to reduce PFAS in affected individuals. However, concerns remain about ongoing water contamination, with elevated PFAS levels found in both public and private water sources, potentially impacting health and agricultural products. The government’s previous confidential settlement with 3M, the manufacturer of the foam, restricts its ability to pursue more aggressive action.
John Q. Hosedrinker