GEORGETOWN, Guyana, Nov 22, 2014, CNS – The Guyana government Friday warned nationals to be wary of various diseases as a result of the floods caused by increased rainfall.
Several areas, particularly the capital and areas along the coastal belt, have been under water as a result of the record rainfall. The Guyana Information Agency (GINA) reported that 186 millimeters, (7.25 inches) of rain fell within a 24 hour period.
A statement issued by the Ministry of Health warned nationals, especially those residing along the coastal belt, to stay out of the water as much as possible, as it can greatly reduce “your chances of contracting diseases such as skin infections, leptospirosis, diarrhoeal diseases and other water-borne diseases”.
Chief Medical officer Dr.Shamdeo Persaud urged people that “if you or any family member experiences any fever, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, skin rash, cuts, sticks, bruises or other conditions, please seek medical attention immediately.
“Georgetown Public Hospital and other hospital outpatient departments in the affected regions are all fully operational and equipped to provide adequate care. Health centers around Georgetown will be open for extended periods and mobile sites in affected areas will be established and published soon,” he added.
The Ministry of Health said it was urging people to use “safe water for drinking, cooking and brushing your teeth, and for making ice and drinks”. The statement described safe water as that “treated with bleach or boiled for five minutes or bottled water”.
The Ministry of Health listed a number of health concerns that could arise as a result of the floods and urged people to watch out for animals.
“Rats, roaches, snakes and centipedes and other pest that have been flooded out of their homes may seek shelter in yours. Use a pole or a stick to poke and turn items over and scare them away.”
CNS/db/2014
