Stay safe after flooding

Recent flooding in Muncie and surrounding areas has left many residents facing damaged homes, disrupted routines and challenging cleanup efforts. As communities begin to recover, healthcare providers encourage residents to be aware of potential health risks associated with floodwater.

“Floodwater is not just dirty water,” says Ritika Zijoo, MD, MPH, IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital Infectious Disease specialist. “It can contain bacteria, viruses, chemicals and debris that can cause illness or injury.”

Exposure to contaminated floodwater can cause wound infections and gastrointestinal illnesses, including Salmonella, E. coli infection and hepatitis A. Injuries from nails, metal fragments, lumber and other debris can create a risk for tetanus. Although rare, leptospirosis can occur through contact with floodwater contaminated by animal urine. Stagnant water left behind after flooding can also create breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

“Anyone who has significant contact with floodwater can be at risk for illness, but young children, older adults, people with weakened immune systems or certain underlying medical conditions, and those with open wounds may be at greater risk for serious complications,” says Zijoo.

Here are some tips for staying safe during flood cleanup and recovery:

• Wash exposed skin with soap and clean water as soon as possible after contact with floodwater. If soap or water is not available, use alcohol-based wipes or sanitizer.

• Wash your hands after contact with floodwater and before eating or preparing food. Be sure to wash children’s hands before meals, too.

• Keep open wounds clean and avoid exposing them to floodwater.

• Wash clothing contaminated by floodwater or sewage with hot water and detergent before wearing it again.

• Do not allow children to play in floodwater or with toys that have been contaminated and have not been properly disinfected.

• Avoid bathing or swimming in water that may be contaminated with sewage or toxic chemicals.

• If you must enter floodwater, wear protective equipment such as rubber boots, gloves and goggles.

Seek medical care if you develop fever; worsening redness, swelling, drainage or pus around a wound; persistent vomiting or diarrhea; severe headache or muscle aches; difficulty breathing; unusual weakness or confusion; or yellowing of the skin or eyes after floodwater exposure.

“Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have been exposed to floodwater,” says Zijoo. “That information can help determine what illnesses or infections should be considered.”