The Health Department has prepared an elaborate action plan to prevent the outbreak of communicable diseases when the floodwaters recede. It will help the people to remain safe and avert health emergencies when residing in relief camps or when they are ready to return to their homes.
Apart from possible public health emergencies, the department is preparing to deal with a host of emotional and mental health issues that may affect people, including depression, anxiety, stress and coping issues.
“We have already issued advisories on the precautions to be taken by people housed in relief camps These include drinking safe and boiled water, frequent hand washing, proper disposal of food waste and seeking medical assistance immediately in the event of diarrhoea or fever. We do anticipate issues arising from the inadequacies of toilet facilities and running water in camps,” a senior Health official said.
Medical teams are visiting camps and the department will set up temporary medical centres at various locations to deal with all medical issues.
Officials reckon that the department’s real task will commence when flood waters start to recede, when cleaning activities, sanitation, cleaning and chlorination of water sources would have to be launched on a massive scale.
Diarrhoeal diseases (water-borne) such as cholera and leptospirosis are a distinct possibility after flooding as drinking water facilities and sewage systems could all be invaded by flowing water. Wading through this water poses a distinct threat of leptospirosis and hence Doxycycline is to be administered to all, including survivors and rescuers, as prophylaxis to prevent the disease.
Stagnant water also poses the threat of vector-borne diseases. Spraying of insecticides and fogging would be commenced as the situation stabilises.
Officials point out that special care would be required for patients with diabetes, hypertension, renal and cardiovascular diseases as many of them would have missed their medications for days and complications could set in. Water and filth all around also increases the possibility of diabetic ulcers on feet.
Psychological issues
Dealing with the psychological issues of survivors, including post-traumatic stress, depression and anxiety and issues of displacement is another major task before the department. Teams of psychiatrists, counsellors and social workers would be engaged to visit all relief camps to help flood victims.
The issues of those who come through major disasters like these go way beyond worries about property damage or how they can pick up the pieces again.
“The emotional aftermath of being stranded for days in the dark, hungry and worn out, with just cold, dark waters lapping all around, can be immense. Many might not recover from it and may feel increased anxiety, insecurity and hopelessness. Some develop chronic and unexplained physical illnesses. Many might have coping issues post-disaster and the stress of having to resume normal lives, replace property, file insurance claims would be too much for them,” according to a mental health expert.
Not just survivors, rescuers could also face many of the psychological issues, including extreme stress, shock and feelings of guilt and distress over the massive scale of the disaster.
A comprehensive and continuous plan would have to be put in place to help flood victims resume normal lives again.
