Ministry of Health: beware of flood-related diseases
New
Ken Chee Hing
The Ministry of Health reminds the public of the health risks associated with floods and flood-related illnesses as the country continues to experience adverse weather conditions.
Floodwaters, the ministry said in a press release Thursday, can carry silt, raw sewage and bacteria, which in turn can contaminate food and water.
The ministry advises certain precautions to be taken to avoid post-flood illnesses:
* Only drink water that has been confirmed to be safe. If bottled water is not available, bring the water to a boil for at least one minute and allow it to cool in a clean container before using.
You can also add 1/8 teaspoon (or eight drops of medicine) of unscented household bleach for every gallon of water, mix well, and let sit for 30 minutes before consuming. Store water in clean, covered containers.
* Carefully inspect food to determine if it may have come into contact with flood waters. Throw away fresh fruit, vegetables, fish and meat that may have come into contact with flood waters.
* Dispose of food in open containers and wrappers and consumables in bags, paper, cloth, fiber or cardboard boxes, such as flour, cereal and rice (even if the wrappers were sealed).
Canned foods are safe to eat, but remove labels and thoroughly sanitize cans with a bleach solution before opening them. But if you have doubts, throw them away.
* Avoid contact with potentially contaminated water (streams, rivers and ponds) and other flooded areas, especially if you have cuts or abrasions to your skin.
* If working in areas subject to flooding, wear protective clothing such as gloves, boots, aprons and goggles to prevent contamination.
* If you have been in contact with flood water or flood-contaminated items, be sure to properly wash and sanitize yourself and all clothing and equipment used.
The ministry said some common diseases associated with the rainy season and post-flood events are dengue fever, leptospirosis and gastroenteritis.
Anyone infected with these viral illnesses may experience one or more of these symptoms: high fever, vomiting, headache, diarrhea, chills and muscle aches.
Further information on proper handwashing techniques, water safety and the use of bleach for cleaning and disinfection after a flood can be found on the ministry’s website: www.health. gov.tt
