A large area of the east coast is dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. Many people are contending with flooded areas and loss of electricity. Diarrheal illnesses are among the most common infectious diseases after this type of disaster. A variety of enteric pathogens including viral (e.g. norovirus, enterovirus, rotavirus), parasitic (e.g. Cryptosporidia, Giardia) and bacterial (e.g. E. coli, Shigella) can cause infections via contact with floodwater. Consuming spoiled food may also lead to food borne bacterial infections. Outbreaks of GI infections, particularly due to norovirus, can also occur in evacuation center settings.
Some tips for Prevention: 1. Floodwater: Wash hands after contact, keep kids and their toys away from the floodwater, and do not use food that has come in direct contact with floodwater, 2. Food from the fridge and freezer: Look for ice crystals or temperature of 40 °F or below (if present- safe for cooking or refreezing), do not use perishable food that has been above 40 °F for 2 or more hours. 3. Tap water: Monitor media for advisories regarding safety for drinking and bathing.
References and additional resources
1. CDC: emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/disease/infectious.asp
2. FDA: www.nws.noaa.gov/om/hurri...ources/FDAHurricaneNL.pdf
3. MMWR: Infectious Disease & Dermatologic Conditions in Evacuees & Rescue Workers After Hurricane Katrina --- Multiple States, August--September, 2005