Dr. Sonya Rehman
Every year, floods destroy communities leaving behind not only destruction of property but also a significant increase in infectious diseases. Stagnant water, poor sanitation, and displacement create fertile ground for the spread of life-threatening diseases.
Acknowledging these flood-borne diseases and knowing how to prevent and treat them is important for public health.
1. Diarrheal Diseases
Contaminated drinking water leads to cholera, dysentery, and gastroenteritis. These conditions cause severe dehydration, particularly in children. Cure & Prevention: Access to clean water, oral rehydration salts (ORS), zinc supplements, and timely antibiotics, can definitively save lives. Hand hygiene and boiling water are key preventive steps.
2. Typhoid Fever
Floodwater often contaminates food and drinking supplies with Salmonella typhi. Fever, abdominal pain, and prolonged illness are common.
Cure & Prevention: Prompt medical attention with antibiotics is crucial.
3. Hepatitis A and E
Viral hepatitis spreads rapidly through polluted water, causing jaundice and liver complications.
Cure & Prevention: Supportive treatment with rest and hydration is usually effective. Safe food, clean drinking water, and vaccination (where available) are important.
4. Vector-borne Diseases
Stagnant pools of water become breeding grounds for mosquitoes, hence spreading malaria, dengue.
Cure & Prevention: Insecticide-treated nets, mosquito repellents, and community fumigation help reduce transmission. Early diagnosis and antimalarial or antiviral therapy save lives.
5. Skin and Respiratory Infections
Prolonged exposure to dirty water and overcrowded shelters can lead to fungal infections, scabies, and respiratory tract infections. Cure & Prevention: Keeping skin dry, using antifungal/ antibiotic creams, and improving ventilation in camps are simple yet effective measures.
Public Health Response
Flood management authorities must go beyond relief distribution. Establishing emergency medical camps, access to clean water, distributing ORS packets,ensuring vaccination drives, and promoting community awareness are extremely important.
Conclusion
Floods may be natural disasters, but the spread of disease in their aftermath is escapable. With timely preventive measures, healthcare interventions, and collective responsibility, countless lives can be saved.