Senior Environmental Health Officer Kerryn Lawrence said people should not swim or play in floodwater because of the dangers of contacting diluted sewage, bacteria or chemicals that may be present.
“It is best to avoid all unnecessary contact with mud and floodwater and to keep children out of flood affected areas,” Ms Lawrence said.
“To avoid illness, it is important to wash hands with soap and clean water after participating in any flood clean-up activities, and before eating or handling food.
“First aid should be applied immediately to any scratches or cuts to reduce chances of infection and children should be kept away from floodwater, mud or flood-affected areas,” said Ms Lawrence.
“Swimming in contaminated water may cause illness, including ear infections, eye infections, fever and diarrhoea,” said Ms Lawrence.
Residents and visitors are advised to avoid swimming in the ocean, rivers, creeks and lagoons for at least three days after the rain has stopped.
Also avoid swimming if there are signs of pollution such as discoloured water, oil or scum on the water, and litter or other debris floating in the water or on the tide line.
Ms Lawrence said that, if people have health concerns, they should first seek advice from their General Practitioner.
Hints for staying healthy during floods and while cleaning up:
* Wear gloves and suitable footwear when removing mud or debris from homes or yards.
* Yards can be raked to remove debris and if necessary, hosed down.
* Don’t try to check electrical appliances and other equipment your-self, seek professional help.
* Have septic tank sorpipes pro-fessionally inspected or serviced if you suspect damage.
* Avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, use roll-on insect repellent on exposed skin and apply every few hours. To avoid creating mosquito breeding sites in your yard empty out potplant bases and remove all water-holding rubbish.
* When cleaning up, consider your personal health, drink plenty of clear fluids, do not wait until you are thirsty. Take breaks when you can, watch out for heat stress.
Further information on safety after floods can be found at:
http://mnclhd.health.nsw.gov.au/about/north-coast-public-health/staying-healthy-during-floods/
