PASCO COUNTY, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County (DOH-Pasco) is urging residents to be cautious of health risks associated with flooding in the aftermath of recent storms.
While skin contact with floodwater itself isn’t a major concern, contamination with bacteria or debris can pose serious health hazards.
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Key Precautions:
- Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene, especially handwashing. If under a boil water notice, use bottled water for baby formula.
- Food and Water Safety: Avoid consuming anything contaminated with floodwater. If unsure about well water safety, use bottled water or boil water before use.
- Wound Care: Clean any cuts or sores that come into contact with floodwater thoroughly. Seek medical attention if redness, swelling, or drainage develops. Ensure your tetanus vaccination is up to date.
Additional Tips:
- Septic Systems: Conserve water if your plumbing is slow. Do not pump your septic tank.
- Mosquito Protection: Use repellent, drain standing water, and keep screens on windows.
- Generator Safety: Use generators outdoors only, away from windows and doors. Ensure your carbon monoxide detector is working.
- Mold Cleanup: Discard items that can’t be cleaned and dried within 48 hours. Open windows for ventilation. Scrub moldy surfaces and avoid mixing bleach with other cleaners.
For well water testing inquiries, contact DOH-Pasco Environmental Public Health at 727-841-4425 option 3.
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