As Queensland reels from the devastation of Cyclone Debbie, the massive clean up bears its weight on those who have lost everything. But if that’s not enough, health and hygiene issues have now become a major concern. Especially in the flood-ravaged areas like Rockhampton, Lismore, and Logan.
Airborne bacteria could bring about the onset of bronchitis, asthma, and other lung-related issues. Water-borne bacteria could affect skin and soft tissue. Diarrhoeal diseases from contaminated food and muddy water could also be on the agenda. Not to mention the impact of mosquito diseases such as Ross River Fever and Barmah Forest Virus.
The ABC Health & Wellbeing website states; “The most effective mosquito repellents contain 20-50 per cent DEET, according to … the Journal of Travel Medicine. Preparations containing higher concentrations of picaridin or PMD – an active ingredient of lemon eucalyptus oil – are the next best choices.”
While towns are struggling to clean up and get back on their feet, authorities are warning to boil all water or buy bottled water, at least in the short term. Still, that may prove a difficult if power is out, dry wood hard to find, supply chains disrupted and gas mains damaged.
It’s now been reported there are over 600 uninhabitable houses left soaking in central and north Queensland. But danger lurks even within the liveable homes of flood-affected areas. A 12-year-old girl was bitten by snake and had to be rushed to Proserpine Hospital and on to Mackay Base Hospital, after she reached into a cupboard for a towel. “The increased risk of snakes, rats and spiders is very common after flooding so residents should be extra vigilant when cleaning up their homes and removing debris and green waste from their yards.” RACQ CQ Rescue Pilot, Greg Webb says in a recent Central Telegraph article.
Receding Flood Waters
But even after flood waters recede and debris is cleared from damaged homes and businesses, the actual cleaning of premises will prove challenging enough. Rot and rising damp not only affects the stability of timber, but when mould sets into floorboards. Walls and carpet, it can severely trigger allergies, chronic asthma, congestion and respiratory infections. People at high risk are the elderly, children and those with weak immune systems. If you fall into any of these high-risk categories, it may be beneficial to hire professional cleaners to help figure out exactly what needs to be done. To ensure a healthier environment is regained quickly, Victoria’s Department of Health suggests; “Small areas of mould can be cleaned using a damp cloth and detergent solution, vinegar solution, or alcohol solution. Mould treatments available in stores can bleach mould, but may not kill it.”
Even if not flood-affected, if you live within the cyclone region. It’s also highly recommended by health experts that carpets, lino, and other floorings be given a complete and thorough cleaning. To make-sure pollutants, which may have lodged deep into crevices and fibres, are eradicated. A local cleaning company would be best able to advise on how to remove hidden bacteria from soft furnishings. Including curtains, lounge suites, cushion covers, carpets and the like. Of course, building inspections are also strongly recommended if there is any concern structural damage may have occurred within the premises.
The Risk of Tetanus
Another health issue rising out of the cyclone and flood-ruined areas, is that of tetanus. So, the Queensland Government is currently offering free tetanus shots to “those affected by or cleaning up” rubble within the region. If anyone is concerned about the risk of tetanus, please contact your local GP.
At the end of the clean up, hopefully common sense will prevail when keeping buildings hygienic. Use gloves, wash dirt from all scratches regularly, and watch out for unwanted wildlife hiding in the home and yard! For all personal or home-health concerns, check in with professionals for the most up-to-date advice on how to cope best after such a destructive disaster, to stay healthy.
Image Source: Volunteering Queensland.
