NCDC releases 10 ways To Prevent Infectious Disease Outbreaks During Flooding!

TEN MESSAGES TO PREVENT INFECTIOUS DISEASE OUTBREAKS DURING FLOODING

The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) have recently issued a warning alert of flooding, which may affect 13 States in Nigeria. Most of the States are around the Rivers Niger and Benue.

Flooding is an event of public health interest due to the resultant outcomes of mortality, morbidity, displacement, loss of property and livelihood. In addition, there is an increased risk of contamination of water supply. Contact with contaminated water increases the risk of transmission of infectious diseases and can lead to outbreaks. Flood sites also provide a breeding ground for disease vectors.

To reduce the spread of infectious diseases such as cholera and typhoid fever; and vector-borne diseases such as malaria and yellow fever during flooding, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) advises that precautionary measures should be taken. We offer ten key messages to Nigerians:

Do not drink flood water, or use it to wash dishes, brush teeth, or wash/prepare food

Communities should ensure chlorination of the public source of water supply

Ensure proper disposal of waste and clearing of sewage

Wash your hands frequently with soap and clean water

Discard all medicines, food and bottled water contaminated by flood water

In homes, ensure water is well boiled before drinking

Avoid open defecation and indiscriminate refuse dumping

Avoid mosquito bites by ensuring consistent use of an Insecticide Treated Net

Health workers should observe universal care precautions at all time

If you experience sudden fever or diarrhea, please visit a health care facility IMMEDIATELY

ABOUT NCDC

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) was established in the year 2011 in response to the challenges of public health emergencies and to enhance Nigeria’s preparedness and response to epidemics through prevention, detection, and control of communicable diseases. Its core mandate is to detect, investigate, prevent and control diseases of national and international public health importance.

For further information:

NCDC Toll-free Number: 0800-970000-10

SMS: 08099555577