Now that floodwaters have receded — finally — you might think areas drying out from all the heavy rain earlier this month would be safe. They are not — at least not for the next few months.
Flint Hills Community Health Center Environmental Health Director Jennifer Milbern says flooding can leave behind a cocktail of bacteria, viruses, parasites and hazardous materials. The bacteria, viruses and parasites can cause a range of illnesses, including wound infections, skin rashes, gastrointestinal issues and even tetanus. Symptoms can range from mild to severe.
On top of that, floodwaters can carry human and livestock waste, pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers. In addition, they can carry displaced animals — including snakes.
Milbern says microbe numbers may not come down significantly for two to three months after flooding.
If you come in contact with floodwaters or flood-exposed soil, Milbern says you should:
*Wash with soap and water as soon as possible or alcohol-based sanitizers if soap is not available
*Clean wounds well and get medical help if appropriate
*Clean all other affected items before next use
*Check to see if your tetanus shot is current. If you haven’t received a tetanus shot for at least a decade, you need a booster. If you’re exposed to floodwaters or flood debris and get any injury within five years of exposure, you need a booster shot.
Call the Flint Hills Community Health Center at 342-4864 ext 5 or go online to www.flinthillshealth.org for more information.
