County officials offer tips on how to safely clean up after flooding

Following the recent heavy rains, McHenry County Department of Health cautions residents of the dangers of floodwater contaminated with bacteria, viruses and other organisms.

Commons waterborne illness symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramps.

Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms persist.

Parents also should restrict children from swimming or playing in flood waters.

To prevent the spread of disease, always wash your hands thoroughly with plenty of warm water and soap before handling, preparing or eating food.

If your water supply is in doubt, use bottled water for preparing food, brushing teeth or preparing baby formula.

The McHenry County Department of Health can provide instructions on how to properly disinfect flooded private water wells including free drinking water sampling for any wells suspected of flooding influences. Cleaning up after a flood can be overwhelming.

Be sure to disinfect any food preparation surfaces that may have been contaminated by floodwater.

Any food or beverage containers should also be carefully examined.

Flooded indoor areas, including walls and floors, must be scrubbed with warm, soapy water.

Wash all linens and clothing in hot water or dry clean.

If there is sewage backup in the basement, it can be disposed of by pumping it into the toilet or floor drains if the drains are connected to the septic system.

Do not pump sewage-contaminated water into the yard or onto the street.

More details on clean up and disinfecting buildings is available at www.mcdh.info.

People who come in contact with floodwater should make sure their tetanus shots are up to date. If you experience a puncture wound or deep cut in floodwater clean-up, your tetanus shot should be within the last five to seven years.

Remember to empty outside containers of standing water to prevent Culex mosquitoes from breeding and reduce your risk of West Nile virus.

Residents with health concerns due to the recent flooding can call the health department at (815) 334-4585.