–as flooding persists

WITH some persons being severely affected by flooding caused by torrential rainfall, the Regional Health Services of Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) has deployed a medical team to affected areas, to administer treatment where necessary, distribute medical supplies, provide health tips and even deliver medication to chronic disease patients.
Director of Health Services in Region Six, Dr. Vishalya Sharma, during an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle, said: “We don’t need another health issue, especially in this pandemic. So far, our teams have visited over 25 communities across the region, touching over 500 households. Based on feedback we have been getting from the teams, is that the response has been very positive, welcoming and timely, especially for households with children.”
Further, she said that basic medication such as antifungal ointment and creams, Paracetamol and masks, are being distributed to persons in flood-affected areas.

Residents are also being sensitised on how to purify water, general health tips and best practices during floods.
In addition, the team is distributing medication for chronic diseases to persons who are unable to leave their homes to access same.
Dr. Sharma said the team is being led by Dion Thomas from the Public Health Department of Region Six and Marvin Dindyal of Environmental Health.
The health team is asking residents to be conscious of the COVID-19 pandemic and wear protective gear whenever they move around in the water. In addition to the outreaches, the team is expected to host sensitisation sessions via television and radio.
Regional Chairman of the Regional Democratic Council of Region Six, David Armogan, said that the health team has been providing much-needed services to the residents.
In his own advice, Armogan urged residents to adhere to the measures being outlined by the team, especially since water-borne diseases are usually expected as the water starts to recede.