Washing hands properly, using clean water, ensuring food hygiene and safety, helps reduce the risk of intestinal diseases after storms and floods.
Dr. Vu Truong Khanh, Head of the Department of Gastroenterology, Tam Anh General Hospital, Hanoi, said that the environment and clean water sources after storms and floods are affected, and dirt can mix into clean water, spreading many pathogens, especially intestinal diseases. Bacteria that cause intestinal diseases in the environment such as E.coli, dysentery, cholera, typhoid… Parasites such as amoebic dysentery, roundworm eggs, hookworms… are abundant in feces and soil, which are sources of gastrointestinal diseases. If not properly prevented, contamination is easily caused, increasing the risk of disease.
Dr. Khanh suggests measures to prevent and reduce the risk of common digestive diseases after storms below.
Ensure clean water source
Dr. Khanh recommends that people in storm-affected areas try to use clean water sources for personal hygiene and drinking, such as bottled water from trusted brands, using water disinfection tablets, portable water filters, etc. After filtering and disinfecting, boil thoroughly to completely remove harmful bacteria.
Wash hands the right way
After a storm or flood, germs can spread through everyday contact. Washing hands regularly and properly is an important measure. People should wash their hands with soap and clean water, especially before eating, after using the toilet and after contact with potentially contaminated objects.
If clean water is not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is an alternative. Handwashing helps prevent bacteria and pathogens from entering the mouth, thereby reducing the risk of developing intestinal disease.
Food hygiene and preservation
Food after storms and floods is easily contaminated by contact with dirty water, insects and bacteria. Wash food thoroughly before consumption under clean running water. If clean water is not available, use recommended food washing solutions. Food must be thoroughly cooked, especially meat, fish and eggs.
Eating raw or undercooked food can easily create conditions for E.coli, Salmonella, Listeria bacteria to grow, causing diarrhea and food poisoning. Avoid using foods that show signs of spoilage such as mold, strange odors, color changes… Storing food in a safe environment helps limit the growth of bacteria.
During and after the storm, many areas experienced temporary power outages. Dr. Khanh advised families to check food in refrigerators and freezers because it can easily spoil. If there is any suspicion that it is unsafe, throw it away immediately.
Ensuring food hygiene and safety helps prevent intestinal diseases. Photo: Linh Nguyen
Waste treatment
Waste after floods can become a source of dangerous diseases. Accumulated waste that has not been promptly treated is a breeding ground for insects and rodents – intermediaries that transmit digestive diseases. People should collect waste in bags or sealed containers, avoiding direct contact with the surrounding environment.
Proactively keep your living area clean, avoid accumulation of trash and stagnant water, and limit water and air pollution. Disinfect and clean indoor surfaces such as floors, sinks, toilets, etc. to help prevent the spread of bacteria.
Boost immunity
According to Dr. Khanh, a healthy immune system is essential for the body to fight pathogens better. Everyone should focus on supplementing nutritious foods, especially vitamin C and zinc, to enhance the body’s natural resistance. Drinking enough water every day helps the body maintain health and supports the detoxification process. Exercise regularly and stay optimistic to strengthen the immune system.
After a storm or flood, if you have unusual digestive symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, etc., you should go to a medical facility for advice and timely treatment. Do not self-medicate or delay treatment, as this can lead to dangerous complications.