Water borne diseases can be fatal

The worst floods hit Penang and several other countries recently to heart the hearts of all Malaysians as it not only destroys property but also lives up to it.

Almost the whole of Penang was flooded as high as 0.2 meters to one meter, as well as 75 instances of fallen trees and eight landslides were reported.

Floods and uncertain weather conditions that occur in almost every state will result in various types of infectious diseases that are alarming to all parties.

It is not an easy thing to do since floods are among the major causes of various diseases including watery diseases such as diarrhea (acute gastroenteritis), cholera, typhoid, hepatitis A, dysentery and food poisoning due to water supply and contaminated food sources.

Floods mixed with rubbish and debris cause it to be contaminated with various types of harmful bacteria.

Commenting on this issue, Senior Medical Group Penawar Sdn Bhd Senior Dr Zubaidi Ahmad said infants, children, senior citizens and chronic illnesses among the most at risk were infected with infectious diseases due to floods.

According to him, the rise in dirty water that occurs in almost every place in Penang will be the main cause of infectious diseases.

"In the present situation, health care and food sources and clean drinks are very important as the transmission of water borne diseases can be fatal.

"Diarrhea among the major symptoms of most waterborne diseases can be fatal when it happens continuously and causes the patient's body to be deficient," he said.

Dr Zubaidi said that this condition can happen quickly due to the loss of plenty of water, causing a lack of blood supply to the kidneys and can eventually cause kidney damage.

"In this scenario, we need to take the necessary steps in terms of health care. Perhaps there are many who are tedious and undergo regular routine when the floods return and return to their homes but the fact is that many health matters need to be emphasized, "he said.

He said the provision of clean water sources among the most necessary methods was to be undertaken after the floods subsided.

"Assistance given at temporary transplant centers should also be systematized when provision should be appropriate such as medicines, food and drink aid, baby needs, including milk and food appropriate for infants.

"It can help to lessen the burden and sorrow of the victims and at the same time their health is well maintained," he said.

He said the real challenge seen in the present situation is the health care of every victim including after the floods have subsided.

"I propose that inter-governmental co-operation with health-related non-governmental organizations (NGOs) be conducted to assist each victim with adequate knowledge of healthcare measures.

"It is necessary to prevent the occurrence of deaths indirectly from this flood," he said.


WEIGHT FACTORS DO NOT AGREE

Besides the people in the affected states with floods, residents in other states also need to be more aware of the current uncertain weather conditions.

Dr Zubaidi said there was heavy rains in most states since last week and it affects individual health conditions.

"Be sensitive to the health of individuals and individuals around, especially to infants, children, pregnant women and senior citizens.

"In cold weather, a lot of effects can occur that require healthcare measures to be systematically done," he said.

According to Dr Zubaidi, watch as well as child movement and do not let them play outside the home without supervision.

"Keep in mind, before getting caught, consult your doctor immediately if you have a health problem and never neglect yourself.

"In the current scenario, all parties need to play their role to prevent the spread of various diseases due to floods," he said.

He said although floods occur almost every year in various locations, however, exposure and knowledge especially on healthcare measures are still lacking.



STEPS STEPS
- Do not get out of the house during heavy rain if you do not have any important reason.

- Always wear appropriate clothing.

- Have a stock of medicines at home.

- Keep your daily diet. Avoid icy drinks to avoid risk of fever, flu or cough.

- Drink enough water daily.

- Get medical attention immediately if it is not healthy.

- Lots of reading about flood information and health care measures.