CLEVELAND – Summer storms can bring heavy rain, which may lead to flooding.
Whether your entire neighborhood is underwater, or it’s just your basement, standing water can be a health hazard.
“Standing water can bring sewage, it can bring other waste and things we would normally get washed away and it’s something that could cause morbidity and mortality,” said Baruch Fertel, MD, an emergency department physician with Cleveland Clinic.
If you come into contact with standing water, Dr. Fertel said it’s important to avoid touching your face so you don’t accidentally transfer bacteria or viruses.
He advised removing any wet clothing and laundering it, and also thoroughly washing with soap and water.
It’s also a good idea to keep kids away from standing water and not allow them to play in it.
He explained that diarrhea illnesses are the most common concern when it comes to standing water, but cuts and scrapes from submerged items are also a risk.
“Injuries could also bring bacteria. It’s important if someone gets a cut to wash it out carefully with soap and water, depending on the type of injury, antibiotics may be indicated,” he said.
If you’ve been cut by something under flood water, you’ll want to check to be sure your tetanus shot is up to date and carefully watch the injury for infection.
If there is any worsening redness, puss, swelling or pain – it’s a good idea to call a healthcare professional.