Maintaining your Health in a Flood Situation

Last updated October 26, 2011

Thailand has an excellent public health infrastructure that is experienced in dealing with flood issues. To help keep yourself and your family members healthy and safe in the unlikely event you encounter flood waters here are some common sense tips:

• Avoid the hazards that you can see, like flood water, electrical hazards and objects floating in the water.
• Be mindful of the dangers that you cannot see in the flood waters, such as microbes that could make you ill or cause infection (like bacteria and viruses) as well as submerged hazards, like hidden sharp objects that may cause injury.
• Have an adequate supply of water available, and stock extra for washing your body if you are exposed to flood water.
• Do not eat food that may have been contaminated by flood water, especially fresh fruits and vegetables. Wash bottles and cans that may have come in contact with flood water thoroughly using solution of ¼ cup bleach per gallon water before you open and consume. As always, cook food thoroughly!
• If using a camp stove or grill be sure there’s adequate ventilation. The risk of carbon monoxide poisoning increases exponentially when heaters, generators or stoves are used indoors.
• Mosquitoes multiply during floods and consequently so does the risk of mosquito-borne illness. Take measures to prevent exposure by using a mosquito-repellent that contains DEET.
• If flood waters enter your home, contact neighborhood authorities. (See listing on Useful Sources of Information)