DSP sounds the alarm! Huge risk of dysentery, hepatitis and leptospirosis in flooded areas in the east of the country

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The Galati Public Health Directorate (DSP) published a guide on the behavior of the population in risk areas, in the context of recent floods, through which it draws attention to the occurrence of diseases such as hepatitis, dysentery, leptospirosis or those transmitted by mosquitoes.

According to the DSP, the effects of floods on health appear either directly through contact with water, or indirectly, as a result of deficiencies at the level of infrastructure, food and water supply. The effects on people exposed to flood water can include injuries caused by contact with certain objects, falls, electrocutions, respiratory infections, but also diseases transmitted by various vectors.

“Increasing temperatures during or after floods and remaining water are factors that favor the breeding of mosquitoes. They can transmit infectious diseases. Therefore: wear long-sleeved clothing, long pants and socks; use chemical repellents against mosquitoes in accordance with the instructions of on the label, to apply to the exposed parts of the body; cover the baby’s crib or stroller with mosquito nets; use protective nets at the doors, windows and around the bed; drain stagnant water from the yard and/or from various containers outside dwelling”, informs DSP, in the guide.

Another determining factor in the occurrence of serious diseases is represented by rodents or dead animals.

“During or after heavy rains and floods, some infectious diseases transmitted by rodents could appear. One such disease is leptospirosis. That is why it is necessary to consider the following tips: house rodent control is very important; keep food in cupboards and/or sealed containers out of the reach of rodents; make sure all entrances and windows are properly sealed to prevent rodents from getting in. Flood and post-flood water pose various risks for human health: infectious diseases (acute diarrheal disease, viral hepatitis A or dysentery), chemical hazards, wounds, drowning”, the document also states.

Specialists draw attention to the fact that some infectious diseases may appear after floods due to the decrease in sanitation or overcrowding in the case of people who were evacuated and accommodated in temporary shelters. Consuming water or food contaminated by flood water can lead to diarrheal diseases, such as Salmonellosis or E.coli infection.

During the week, DSP distributed and replenished the stocks of lime chloride and Chlorom tablets for the disinfection of wells in the localities affected by floods, the stocks of pediatric anti-tetanus and anti-hepatic vaccines, water samples were taken for chemical and microbiological examination.

At the same time, several adults received the tetanus vaccine, and the authorities continue to monitor the affected areas.