Trudy Simpson, Staff Reporter
DR. DERRICK Ledford, medical officer of health for St. Elizabeth, says he is concerned that many persons in drought-affected areas may be at risk for water-borne illnesses such as gastro-enteritis.
This is occurring because low or non-existent piped water supplies in some areas have forced residents to source water from areas which have not been certified as healthy for consumption.
"When they don't have a source, they may go to springs and rivers to get supplies but these can be contaminated so they need to boil water," he said last week. "They need to be careful because of water-borne illnesses such as gastro-enteritis."
He said persons may even be at risk if they purchase water from water trucks and so they must boil their water before using it.
Individuals can purify water by using drops of bleach.
WASH HANDS BEFORE EATING
A health ministry advisory said last year that persons must also wash hands before preparing or eating food, if taking care of a sick person or a baby and before touching eyes and mouth to prevent gastro-enteritis and typhoid
They should also wash hands after using the toilet, handling raw meat, changing a diaper and handling garbage, among other things, the ministry said.
Dr. Ledford also raised concerns about possible increases in respiratory infections and allergies from dust generated by dry conditions but says persons can minimise exposure by wearing masks; using a wet handkerchief to cover the nose or, where possible, using properly functioning air conditioning units.
He also urged people to start clearing drains and to begin making other preparations for the upcoming rainy season to reduce the possibility of flooding in the future. Clearing drains and removing old tyres and where stagnant pools of water can gather will reduce the level of mosquito infestation, he said.
HOW TO TREAT WATER
1) Boil.
2) Add bleach.
QUANTITY
Add two drops of bleach to one quart/litre of water, shake well and leave for 30 minutes.
Add eight drops of bleach to five litres or one gallon of water, shake well and leave for 30 minutes.
Add half teaspoon of bleach to 20 litres or five gallons of water, stir well and leave for 30 minutes before drinking.
