There were two health and safety incidents this week at MDRS. The first was an allergic reaction after EVA-00 (the first EVA). Towards the end of the EVA, one crew member experienced massive itching in hands and feet, and across bottom of lips. After doffing the suit, the crew member had swelling of tongue and trouble speaking clearly. She washed her hands and face and took an antihistamine, and 20 min later all was well. It is suspected that this was a reaction to Pixel, the Hab cat, as the cat is often in the EVA prep room, and may have been sleeping in the helmet. Since then she has a designated helmet that is swabbed out before each mission with alcohol. She also wears latex gloves inside the suit. The cat is not allowed in her room, and she takes an antihistamine every day. There have been no further allergic reactions and it appears to be under control. The cat is loved by the crew, both for crew morale and to catch mice. The crew member with the reaction would like to emphasize that with the precautionary measures, there have been no further problems, and since the cat is a wonderful addition to the Hab such measures should be considered by future crewmembers with allergies.

The second incident was the result of a crew member tripping on the treadmill during an exercise session for a study. There were no major injuries, just scraped fingers and legs, and a tooth ache. The cuts were cleaned with alcohol. Polysporin was used with bandaids. Asprin was also taken for the toothache (2 tablets, 2 times that day). The crewmember is still participating in daily treadmill exercise.

One comment from the crew is in regard to the camelbacks for the EVA suits. Mission support has advised we use them to keep hydrated on EVA. However, we did a small 'experiment' on them, and there was microbial growth. We can send pictures. Therefore, the crew would prefer not to use them, and would advise other crews to refrain. If they are to be used, they should be disposable and for individual crewmember use.

The biweekly safety inspection will be done this week.