THE Ministry of Health is advising the general public to pay special attention to your health, personal hygiene, water safety and vector control in light of the increased rainfall and the flooding in many parts of the country. 

The Ministry would like to advise persons living in flooded area to stay out of the water as much as possible, as it can greatly reduce your chances of contracting diseases such as skin infections, Leptospirosis, Diarrheal diseases and other water-borne diseases. Direct contact with flood waters can expose you to several germs that can lead to any of these diseases. Most importantly keep children out of the water as they are most at risk of contracting diseases.
If contact with flood water is unavoidable use protective foot wear such as long boots. “Prepare a foot bath of ½ cup of bleach to one bucket of water and wash your feet before entering the house and then apply Vaseline or oil to your skin as it forms a barrier and provides some protection from the dirty water,” the Ministry advises.
Use safe water, water treated with bleach, for drinking, cooking and brushing your teeth, and for making ice and homemade drink. Discard all food that has been in contact with flood waters safely by placing it in a plastic bag and depositing it in covered bins. Wash all fruits and vegetables with treated safe water and peel before eating. Keep all food items and drinking water in sealed containers. Cook food thoroughly and consume within one hour of preparation.
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and safe water or use hand sanitisers, especially before and after eating meals, after going to the toilet or latrine and taking care of the children. Protect yourself and family against mosquitoes by sleeping under mosquito nets, use mosquito repellents and cover storage containers as reduce the breeding of mosquitoes. “Remember, the mosquito that spreads Chikungunya virus breeds in fresh still water around your home,” the ministry urges.
Persons in affected area should be aware of rats, roaches, snakes and centipedes and other pest that have been flooded out of their homes may seek shelter in yours.
If your home was seriously affected by flood water and you suspect electrical wiring have been damaged, have it checked before turning the main electrical switch. “Know the location of the main electrical breakers and the gas and water valves in your home and ensure path is clear to access them easily so that you can shut them off in emergencies” they explained. Turn of the main electrical switch and unplug all appliances if you home is under water.
The Ministry of Health would like the public to be aware that if you or any family member experiences any fever, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, skin rash, cuts, sticks, bruises or other conditions, seek medical attention immediately.
The Georgetown Public Hospital and other hospital outpatient departments in the affected regions are all fully operational and equipped to provide adequate care. Health centers around Georgetown will be open for extended period and mobile sites in affected areas will be established and published soon.