United States: In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene’s initial destruction, a looming secondary threat now presents itself—an insidious surge in infections and diseases.
Amidst recovery efforts, residents in western North Carolina are confronted with several perilous health risks beyond physical trauma. The presence of tainted floodwaters fosters an environment ripe for the proliferation of waterborne pathogens and respiratory maladies. The danger is further compounded by a severe shortage of drinkable water, exacerbating the already fragile situation.
The rise in infectious diseases is poised to stretch healthcare facilities to their breaking point, as they remain inundated with victims of the hurricane’s wrath, according to USA Today.
Legionnaires’ Disease, E. Coli, and Tetanus Among Looming Health Concerns Post-Helene
Floodwaters, sullied by hazardous waste and chemicals, as well as animal and human waste, pose a dire threat to public health. Ingesting or simply coming into contact with such waters can lead to serious infections. Research conducted in 2023 unveiled a spike in waterborne illnesses such as E. coli, Legionnaires’ disease, and Cryptosporidiosis in the aftermath of storm-induced flooding.
Those tasked with cleaning up the devastation face significant health risks. If individuals with open wounds are exposed to contaminated water, the likelihood of contracting tetanus rises, especially for those not current with vaccinations, as reported by USA Today.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) advises several key precautions to minimize risk when dealing with floodwaters:
– Rigorously practice hygiene after exposure to floodwaters. Cleanse hands with soap and water before handling food or eating.
– Children must be kept from playing in floodwaters, and their hands should be washed frequently, particularly before meals.
– Any items such as toys or kitchen surfaces that come into contact with floodwater should be disinfected with a bleach solution and thoroughly air-dried.
Safety of Private Wells and Septic Systems
More than 300,000 individuals in western North Carolina rely on private wells for their water supply, according to NCDHHS. It is crucial that these wells, particularly in flood-affected regions, undergo thorough inspection and disinfection. Similar precautions extend to septic systems as well. Until a well is cleared for use, residents should opt for alternative sources, such as bottled water or boiled water, ensuring it has been boiled for at least one minute, as per USA Today.
Respiratory Illnesses Like COVID-19, Influenza, and RSV Likely to Spread
Crowded shelters provide ideal conditions for the rapid transmission of respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19, influenza, and RSV. When large groups of people are packed together in confined spaces, the risk of these diseases spreading multiplies.
Flood-ravaged areas also create a perfect environment for mold and bacterial growth, which can further threaten respiratory health, particularly for those aiding in the recovery process. Mold exposure, for instance, can trigger asthma attacks and other respiratory issues.
The American Lung Association emphasizes the following protective measures for individuals involved in post-Hurricane Helene cleanup:
– Equip yourself with protective gear to guard against inhaling dust, building debris, contaminants, and microorganisms. Wearing disposable gloves, goggles, and an N95 mask is crucial.
– Before cleanup, cut off the electricity and gas supply at the affected site. Avoid using gasoline-powered devices such as generators, power washers, grills, or stoves indoors or near open windows, as these can emit carbon monoxide, posing a deadly risk.
– Utilize soap and water for scrubbing mold off hard, non-porous surfaces, steering clear of bleach as it can irritate the respiratory system.
– Discard any items soaked by floodwater, such as clothing, papers, furniture, carpets, ceiling tiles, and drywall. Items left damp for 24 to 48 hours are prone to harbor harmful bacteria and toxins.
By adhering to these measures, residents and cleanup crews can mitigate the additional health risks presented in the hurricane’s aftermath, safeguarding themselves against the myriad hazards that come with such natural disasters.