What are some health concerns you may experience after a flood?

Heavy rains in Houston and surrounding areas can lead to damaging floods. What is in floodwater can negatively affect your health. Dr. Zachary Shepard, an assistant professor of infectious diseases at Baylor College of Medicine, details health concerns you may experience after a flood and how to protect yourself.  

Floodwater often will leave behind debris and damage to infrastructure and homes. If you're cleaning up and not wearing protective gloves or proper shoes, stepping on something can easily lead to an infection.  

“We see a lot of soft tissue infections. A penetrating injury is an easy way to get a skin infection,” said Shepard.  

The floodwater itself is contaminated and full of bacteria, mold and more. To minimize skin contact from floodwater, which is presumed to be contaminated with sewage, take precautions by wearing waders, sturdy gloves and boots. 

“Certainly, don't drink the water. Drinking bottled or treated water is best because foodborne illnesses can be spread by contaminated water,” said Shepard. 

After a flood, people may worry about mold in their homes. Shepard says that it is very uncommon for mold to cause respiratory infections, unless there are people in the home who are severely immunocompromised.  

“Mold in drywall or in the beams of your home can trigger allergic reactions and can make asthma a lot worse,” said Shepard. "Wear a protective mask if you do work around your home; mold can cause acute allergy symptoms, where patients will have a cough and a runny nose. Anyone with an underlying lung issue is at a higher risk of having a more severe reaction.”  

If you experience these symptoms, see a physician. It’s always best to wear a protective mask if you plan on doing work around your home where there is mold.   

For more information on how to stay safe during and after a severe weather event, click here.