Katrina Health Hazards - what you need to know

We extend our deepest sympathy to those who have suffered at the hands of this terrible catastrophe.

Here is what you need to know about the various possible health hazards of this or any other catastrophic flood:

• Floodwater is associated with disease. During a flood, water mixes with and becomes contaminated by the raw sewage (and other chemicals normally found in a city). Tap water will probably be contaminated since the municipal and home water systems may have become contaminated. Obviously, food and other items that have been in contact with floodwater will probably be contaminated and should be avoided.
  
  
• Canned foods and closed bottles of water are also likely to be contaminated by contact with the floodwaters. Therefore, drink water only from a known clean source, for example bottled water that has not come into contact with the floodwater, preferably freshly distributed water.
  
  
• A number of common diseases are carried in the water, including Amebiasis, Salmonella, Hepatitis A, Campylobacter and others. These microorganisms may cause diarrhoea, vomiting, high temperature and abdominal cramps, the severity depending on the particular bug and the person's susceptibility.
  
  
• Hand washing is important (if clean water is available), and alcohol based hand cleaners should be used when possible.
  
  
• Beware of mosquitoes since they can transmit a number of diseases. It is probable that the West Nile virus, which was present just before Hurricane Katrina, will be exacerbated. The water tends to attract mosquitoes. If possible,wear clothes covering the arms and legs (i.e. long-sleeved shirts and long pants), to avoid mosquito bites.
  
  
• Using generators and indoor camp stoves or grills can lead to potentially lethal carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide has no smell and no color and therefore can quickly build up to deadly levels.
  
  
• The dismal and sad scenes of bodies floating on the water is heartbreaking, but it is now known that they do not pose any urgent threat. Rescuers have correctly focused their initial efforts on saving lives, rather than disposing of the floating bodies.
  
  
• Those who have been rescued or have directly witnessed the suffering of others may experience painful emotions, including feeling angry, grieved, anxious, stressed, disoriented and bereaved. These are normal reactions and nothing to be ashamed of. If you feel this way, seek help as soon as possible. Talk with others, your friends and colleagues. Don't hide your emotions. Remain active and involved. Many people are expected to require professional support over a long period of time and may be vulnerable to psychological problems.
  
  
• Be aware of the needs and suffering of others. Many people require medications on a daily basis to function normally. They may have lost access to their medications in the immediate aftermath of Katrina. Others need to attend hospital frequently just to stay alive, for example, those needing dialysis.
  
  

We wish the rescue services continuing success in completing the difficult and complicated recovery mission and for a quick union of lost and missing families.