Flooding can introduce contaminated water into buildings, carrying toxic chemicals, heavy metals, pesticides, biotoxins, sewage, and water-borne pathogens. Dried sediments left behind can become airborne dust when disturbed, potentially affecting respiratory health.
Buildings need not be fully submerged during flooding to cause respiratory problems. Water intrusion through roofs, windows, and ventilation ducts can also lead to health issues.
Mold growth is a common hazard after flooding, especially in damp materials inside buildings. Mold produces spores that can cause respiratory complications such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, and sinusitis.
Children are particularly vulnerable to health problems triggered by mold, and exposure to high concentrations of mold spores can contribute to the development of asthma in children.
 |
Factors that impact respiratory health after flooding include the age of the building's roof, precautionary measures taken after flooding, flood water height, and time spent at home.
Tips to protect against health harms of flooding include repairing the roof, cleaning gutters, sealing vulnerable areas, installing sump pumps and backflow valves, and taking quick action after flooding to reduce dampness and mold growth.
After flooding, limit contact with floodwater and dispose of sediment, remove affected porous materials, increase ventilation, use dehumidifiers, and upgrade air filters to reduce exposure to airborne mold spores.
If mold growth is spotted, use protective gear such as an N95 face mask, gloves, and rubber boots when cleaning. Clean and disinfect items that came into contact with water, and dispose of moldy materials in sealed plastic bags.
Comments
Post a Comment