The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has announced a “multi-disciplinary, community-focused series of studies” to better understand the implications of the 2023 Norfolk Southern train derailment and chemical release on public health in East Palestine and surrounding communities.

The initiative will examine potential long-term effects of exposure to vinyl chloride and other chemicals released during the 2023 Norfolk Southern train derailment.

The NIH says that it plans to monitor the ongoing health of East Palestine residents, and to address community concerns moving forward.