Taiwan Warns of Health Risks Following Typhoon Kong-rey
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Loading... - Hisoka Teruya
- 07 Nov 2024
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Following Typhoon Kong-rey, Taiwan's Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has issued warnings to residents about increased health risks, particularly related to mosquito-borne diseases, injuries, and intestinal infections. Heavy rainfall and flooding from the typhoon have created ideal conditions for various health hazards, prompting the CDC to outline specific preventive measures for residents, especially in the southern regions affected by the storm.
Mosquito-Borne Disease Prevention: Dengue Fever Risks
With stagnant water left by the storm, there is a heightened risk of dengue fever, as stagnant water serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. The CDC has provided several guidelines to prevent mosquito breeding and reduce the spread of dengue fever:
i. Remove Standing Water: Clear all containers, both indoors and outdoors, that may hold stagnant water, including flower pots, tires, and buckets.
ii. Clean and Scrub: Follow the CDC’s "search, empty, clean, and brush" guideline. Scrub containers thoroughly to remove any mosquito eggs.
iii. Proper Disposal of Large Containers: For larger items like bathtubs or aquariums that can collect rainwater, residents should contact local sanitation services to handle disposal.
iv. Inspect Common Breeding Areas: Southern Taiwan residents are urged to inspect and clean areas like roof gutters and alley drains, common breeding sites for the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which transmits dengue.
Anyone experiencing symptoms such as fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, rash, eye pain, or muscle aches is encouraged to seek medical attention promptly and inform their healthcare provider about any recent exposure to typhoon-affected areas.
Prevention of Injury and Infection: Tetanus, Leptospirosis, and Melioidosis
The CDC warns of injury risks associated with cleanup efforts. Flooding and debris increase the likelihood of infections like tetanus, leptospirosis, and melioidosis from contact with contaminated or rusty objects. Safety tips include:
i. Wear Protective Gear: When cleaning up debris, use rain boots, gloves, and masks to prevent cuts and scrapes that could lead to infections.
ii. Infection Prevention: For minor scrapes or wounds, immediately clean and disinfect the area to reduce the risk of bacterial infection.
iii. Air Quality Precautions: Wearing a mask indoors and outdoors helps prevent inhaling harmful particles that may be dispersed by typhoon winds and debris.
Reducing Intestinal Diseases: Food Safety and Water Sanitation
Flooded areas can contaminate food supplies and lead to foodborne illness. The CDC recommends the following precautions to minimize the risk:
i. Avoid Flood-Contaminated Food: Discard any food soaked in water during the typhoon, as well as food that has been unrefrigerated for extended periods.
ii. Sanitize Surfaces and Utensils: Clean kitchen surfaces using a bleach solution (1:100 ratio) to disinfect areas exposed to floodwaters.
iii. Safe Drinking Water Practices: In areas experiencing water shortages, drink only boiled or bottled water. If the water supply resumes but seems contaminated, report the issue to local authorities for immediate action.
Additionally, during times when soap and water may be inaccessible, use a hand sanitizer containing 60%-95% alcohol to ensure proper hand hygiene.
As Taiwan recovers from Typhoon Kong-rey, the CDC’s guidance aims to reduce the public health risks associated with flooding and waterlogging. By following these preventive steps, residents can minimize the risks of dengue fever, tetanus, and foodborne illnesses, protecting both individual and community health.
