A flooded field with a massive buildup of trash, raw sewage and debris litters the Tijuana River Valley on Feb. 7 in San Diego. My husband and I are in the unique position to witness firsthand the health consequences of living near the Tijuana River sewage, as we are residents of Imperial Beach, as well as doctors who practice in the area. We treat patients daily who are embedded in one of the worst environmental justice and health crises in the U.S.
Our patients have known for years that the sewage has made them sick, and they rely on us for guidance. We frequently hear them say nobody is advocating for their health. This is why we stepped up and participated in the local task force with Imperial Beach Mayor Paloma Aguirre. We have become the voice of our community, and we are asking for the county health department to do the same.
This is one example where the health department could step up and protect the residents from possible illness caused by the sewage. We need it to advocate for the health of our neighbors.a day of sewage running through our communities be an acceptable risk for living in the South Bay? I say no.