Many are only returning now to recently flooded properties to see just how much damage and filth has been left behind as the waters receed. Public health chiefs are concerned that there could be the potential for a big increase in cases of diarrhoea, vomiting and stomach upsets as flood water contaminated with raw sewage has leaked from overflowing drainage systems throughout people’s homes.
People in areas of flooding have been warned to wash their hands regularly and thoroughly, especially before preparing food or to dress open wounds. The Food Standards Agency has advised to clean and disinfect the inside of fridges, freezers and cupboards that have been touched by flood water as well as all work and food preparation surfaces. Now that the waters are receding owners of flooded properties are being urged to ensure homes are thoroughly dried out as bacteria thrive in damp conditions.
Flood water can contain a variety of harmful bacteria including E.Coli, salmonella, typhoid and campylobacter and there is widespread concern that there could be a large increase in the cases of the highly contagious winter vomiting bug norovirus. Public Health England have been reported to be monitoring reports from hospitals and GPs for any indications of outbreaks of infectious disease.
Faced with the virulence of norovirus dental practices should be particularly vigalent about hand hygiene and surface cleaning. Hands should be washed regularly, preferably using a bactericidal hand cleanser and surfaces should be cleaned thoroughly with alcohol free, wide spectrum microbiocide disinfectants with proven efficay against norovirus and other harmful bacteria.