South Dakota's state epidemiologist wants the public to know the risk of floodwaters.
Doctor Josh Clayton says people need to take steps to ensure they don't get sick.
"Because it can contain human and animal waste, chemicals, and other contaminants. So, it's important to keep in mind that it's not clean water and that you should, after being exposed to it, after coming into contact with it, making sure you wash your hands with soap and water."
Clayton says people cleaning out basements and other water-damaged property should be aware of mold.
He says mold spores will land on wet surfaces and that a bleach solution works to eliminate it.
Clayton says if mold isn't taken care of, people can become ill.
"Individuals can kind of have a contact reaction to the mold - kind of an allergic reaction such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and it can also result in a skin rash. That is kind of the contact piece. If mold spores are disturbed, and you're not wearing respiratory protection - you can have some irritation of the eyes, the nose, throat, and lungs. And, of course, individuals who have asthma may be more prone to having an asthma attack and so on."
Clayton says people removing mold need to protect their eyes and wear masks and gloves to prevent illness. He says it's also important for everyone to stay hydrated while working to clear flood-damaged areas.
Below are additional pieces of advice from the South Dakota Department of Health.
Water Safety:
Flood waters can be a risk to your health because they can contain human and animal waste, chemicals, and other contaminants. Do not eat or drink anything contaminated with flood water.
- Wash hands with soap and water after contact with flood water to avoid illness caused by waterborne disease.
- Clean and disinfect toys and surfaces that have been contaminated by flood water.
- Care for wounds and rashes in contact with flood water by washing with soap and water. Seek medical care if redness, swelling, or drainage develops.
- Listen to water advisories from local authorities to find out if your water is safe for drinking and bathing. Flooded wells should be tested before homeowners resume use.
Clean Up:
Once flood waters recede, take care to protect your health as you clean up your home or business.
- Wear the right gear: waterproof boots, mask, gloves, and eye protection
- Take care of your health: stay hydrated, pace yourself, and use caution when moving heavy/bulky objects or using power equipment
- Clean up and dry your home quickly to avoid mold growth.
- Wear protective equipment, including a mask, gloves, and eye protection.
- Allergic reactions to mold are common. Symptoms include: sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash
- Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning by using generators outside and at least 20 feet from doors, windows, or vents.
- Be aware of potential hazards: electrical, chemical, and structural
- Use the following guidelines for disinfecting your home
- For food surfaces: Mix 1 teaspoon of bleach in 1 gallon of water
- For items and surfaces that have touched flood water: Mix 1 cup of bleach in 5 gallons of water
- For hard surfaces with mold growth: Mix 1 cup of in 1 gallon of water