Getting sick from floods

PETALING JAYA: With the north-east monsoon present and the possibility of floods being a reality, another concern is the spread of waterborne diseases due to floods, says a public health expert.

With symptoms ranging from cough to diarrhoea, waterborne diseases should not be taken lightly given how they could turn fatal, said Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia’s Prof Dr Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh.

Dr Sharifa said waterborne diseases are common during the flood season, and noted how sporadic cases could lead to local outbreaks in certain populations such as flood relief centres.

“During floods, most sewers and toilets are submerged, resulting in faeces mixing with floodwaters. This water can be accidentally swallowed by those exposed to the floods, which can result in (waterborne) infections,” she said when contacted.

Among the common waterborne diseases are salmonella, typhoid and cholera, she said.

Explaining further, Dr Sharifa said common symptoms of waterborne diseases include abdominal cramp, nausea, fever and fatigue, with severe cases resulting in coma and death.

“The consumption of food contaminated by floodwaters can also cause gastrointestinal issues. Common symptoms (here) include blood-stained diarrhoea and even vomiting, which can last up to a week,” she said.

Dr Sharifa said it is also important for flood relief centres to have good sanitation measures with an appropriate water supply for toilets.

“Those affected by floods must refrain from drinking floodwaters. In emergency cases, boil the collected floodwater twice to kill as much pathogens as possible.

“Make sure to wash your hands with soap and water after using the toilet and before preparing food. Use clean and boiled water when cooking,” she said.

Separately, the Fire and Rescue Department also advised residents in flood-prone areas to exercise caution in the event of floods.

Its operations director, Datuk Nor Hisham Mohammad, said it is important for these groups to prepare a bag of necessities to ease the evacuation process, if needed.

“The bag should contain clean water, a torchlight, simple food, a first aid kit and spare clothes, among others, while hand- phones and power banks are also a must.

“Make sure to bring along important documents such as identification cards, insurance documents, and bank cards, along with your house and vehicle keys if you have to evacuate.

“If carrying more than one bag, make sure to label what they contain,” Nor Hisham said, adding that it is best if the bags are prepared beforehand.

Electrical appliance sockets should be stored on higher ground when possible, with the power source also being turned off, he said.

Nor Hisham said food should also be carefully stored at home (if leaving flood-infested areas) to avoid attracting wild animals.

“Make sure to immediately dispose of any broken pieces of furniture (when cleaning your house after the floods), as this is where snakes usually hide.

“Wear safety boots, gloves and long pants when doing so,” he said.

He also advised vehicle users not to traverse floodwaters if they encounter them while on the road.

“Floodwaters can contain mud and debris, with the water flow also being stronger than it seems.

“Even six-inch-deep water can enter a vehicle’s exhaust pipe and sweep your vehicle away.

“If left with no (choice), the best practice would be to drive in the middle of the road as the waters there are usually the shallowest. However, never drive your vehicle through running floodwaters,” he said.