position: EnglishChannel > News > Article

How to Prevent Epidemics After Flood

Source: Science and Technology Daily | 2024-08-05 16:13:28 | Author: Staff Reporters


It rains heavily in Liaoning province, northeast China. (PHOTO:XINHUA)

By Staff Reporters

As heavy rains continue to lash parts of south China, people's safety and health are at risk. How can we prevent the outbreak of epidemics after flood disasters? Lin Jinlan, a specialist from the Office of Infection Control and Disease Prevention, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, gave some suggestions for clean-up and recovery.

First, do not return home until the authorities have declared it safe, and follow their instructions. Garbage in and around homes should be removed in a timely manner.

Second, maintain good hygiene during flood clean-up by minimizing contact with floodwaters or anything that may have been polluted. Wear protective clothing, including rubber boots and gloves, safety glasses, a hard hat, and a dust mask.

Third, do not use tap water if you notice a change in its color, taste, or odor; throw away any food that has been in contact with floodwater, which is a breeding ground for bacteria and mold; and throw away soft plastic and porous items that have likely absorbed whatever the floodwaters brought in.

Fourth, heavy rains and increased humidity often cause pest activities. Large numbers of mosquitos, flies, fleas, ticks, and rats come out and multiply. Mosquito repellents and insecticides should be used to prevent contagious diseases, but be sure to keep them in a safe place out of reach of children and use them according to the instructions since most insecticides are poisonous.

Fifth, gas appliances and pipes may break during floods, causing a gas leak. If you suspect a leak or smell of gas, leave your home immediately and call the gas company. If you have any gas appliances that have been flooded, you need to clean the sludge out of the pilot and burners. But first turn off the gas.

Lin also warned that the elderly, children and people with chronic diseases are more susceptible to infectious diseases after flooding. Family members and relief workers should focus on providing them with as much protection as possible.

Editor: 毕炜梓

Top News

Space Cooperation Consolidates Sino-French Friendship

On June 22, the Sino-French satellite Space Variable Objects Monitor (SVOM) was successfully launched. Earlier, on May 3, China's Chang'e-6 lunar probe carried France's Detection of Outgassing RadoN to the moon, marking the first collaboration between the two countries in lunar exploration and France's debut in a lunar landing project. This year also celebrates the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France, highlighting their longstanding cooperation in space.

Tech Innovations' Role in Building a Leading Sports Nation

Pushing the development of tech innovation is needed to achieve China's goal of becoming a leading sports nation by 2035, as well as becoming a modernized country.