ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Following Hurricane Helene, the Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County (DOH-Pinellas) is urging residents to remain vigilant about the potential health risks associated with flooding and storm-related issues.
While skin contact with floodwaters may not pose a serious health threat by itself, health hazards increase if the water becomes contaminated with bacteria or contains dangerous debris.
Read: Northwest Sewer Services Disrupted In St. Petersburg Due To Hurricane Helene Storm Surge
DOH-Pinellas offers the following guidelines to help residents avoid illness or injury from floodwaters:
Hygiene and Floodwater Safety:
- Maintain basic hygiene: If your area is under a boil-water notice, use commercially bottled water for mixing baby formula. Wash your hands with soap and disinfected or boiled and cooled water, especially before preparing food, eating, using the toilet, changing diapers, cleaning up flood damage, or handling items contaminated by floodwater or sewage.
- Avoid eating or drinking anything contaminated by floodwaters.
- Avoid floodwater contact: If you have open cuts or sores, stay out of floodwaters. If contact occurs, thoroughly wash the area with soap and clean water to prevent infection. Seek immediate medical attention if a wound becomes red, swollen, or has drainage.
- Tetanus vaccinations: Residents with cuts or puncture wounds should contact their healthcare provider to ensure they are up-to-date on their tetanus shots, as a booster may be necessary.
Read: Pinellas County Sheriff, Crews Work To Clean Up Barrier Islands After Hurricane Helene
Boil Water Notices:
If your area is under a boil-water notice, follow these steps:
- Boil water for at least one minute after it reaches boiling point.
- Continue boiling water for use even if you have a water filter installed.
- Use bottled or properly boiled water to wash fruits and vegetables and to prepare drinks.
Mosquito Protection:
Increased mosquito activity is common after storms. To prevent bites:
- Apply repellent to exposed skin.
- Drain standing water around your home, as it serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
- Ensure window screens are intact and repair any holes.
Generator Safety:
For those using generators during power outages, be aware of the risks associated with carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning:
- CO is an odorless, invisible gas that can be deadly if inhaled. Generators produce CO quickly.
- Never use generators indoors or in enclosed spaces like garages. Operate them outdoors, far away from windows and doors.
- Make sure your CO detector is functional if you have one installed.
Mold Cleanup After Flooding:
To avoid mold-related health issues, follow these tips:
- Dispose of any items soaked by floodwaters that cannot be completely cleaned or dried within 24 to 48 hours.
- Open doors and windows when cleaning to reduce mold exposure.
- Scrub wet surfaces with detergent and water to remove visible mold before applying paint or caulk.
- Do not mix bleach with other cleaning products, especially ammonia, as this can release harmful fumes.
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