McHenry County Health Department cautions residents of floodwater dangers

With the recent flooding from heavy rains and more rain expected, residents are advised that flood water can contaminate food and drinking water.

To avoid getting a waterborne illness, the McHenry County Department of Health recommends that residents affected by flooding visit the department's webpage www.mcdh.info for flood information related to the clean-up of solid waste, water wells and septic.

Common water-borne illness symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramps.

Never allow children to play in flood waters, and seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms after exposure to flood waters.

Exposure to flood waters does not increase the risk of tetanus. However, emergency responders and others impacted by floods may be at increased risk for wounds or may have wounds such as cuts, bruises, or scrapes that become contaminated. Before starting evacuation or cleanup activities, know your tetanus vaccination status and make sure that you have been vaccinated within the last 10 years. In some situations, your physician may decide that a tetanus vaccine is needed as early as 5 years since the last dose.

For a tetanus booster contact your health care provider. The McHenry County Department of Health also offers tetanus vaccine boosters. Call (815) 334-4500 for information.

A private water well which has been submerged must be considered contaminated and unsafe to drink for cooking, drinking, preparing food, baby formula or brushing teeth. Obtain bottled water or bring tap water to a rolling boil for at least 5 minutes before use.

The health department will perform free testing of flooded private water wells for coliform bacteria after the flood waters have receded and the well has been flushed and disinfected.

See the department's Frequently Asked Questions "About Water Wells and Flood Clean-Up" for additional information.

To prevent the spread of disease, always wash your hands with warm water and soap before handling, preparing, or eating food. Be sure to disinfect food preparation surfaces that may have been contaminated by flood water. Food or beverage containers should be carefully examined.

Flooded, non-permeable surfaces of indoor areas (walls, floors, etc.) must be scrubbed with warm, soapy water. Wash linens and clothing in hot water or dry clean.

If there is sewage backup and the drains are connected to the sewer system, then it can be disposed of by pumping it into the toilet or floor drains.

Never pump sewage-contaminated water into the yard or into the street.

Details on cleanup and disinfection is available at the Environmental Health section of www.mcdh.info or by calling (815) 334-4585.