Guyana Health Ministry appeals public to stay safe, shares Flood Tips

Guyana: The Ministry of Health of the Republic of Guyana has recently shared “Flood Tips” for the safety of the general public of the nation. Floods can cause serious damage to personal safety, making it important to take certain precautions before, during, and after a flood.

The Ministry has informed that during the rainy season, citizens are encouraged to use protective gear such as long boots, gloves, and eye protection if they must venture into an area with flood waters.

It further raised concern and stated that the people are asked to prepare a foot bath of ½ cup of bleach in one bucket of water and wash their feet before entering their house, upon return; when finished, apply Vaseline or oil to their skin as it forms a barrier and provides some protection from the dirty water.

The Ministry of Health also wished to encourage the general public to practice good/proper hand washing, as flood waters can make you sick. Always wash with clean water and soap or use hand sanitiser, especially before eating meals, after going to the toilet or latrine, cleaning children, or handling animals and contaminated materials.

The Ministry outlined that good hand hygiene will prevent you from contracting diseases such as skin infections, Leptospirosis, Diarrhea, and other water-borne diseases.

Additionally, it added that residents living in flood-prone areas and are currently experiencing flood waters are encouraged to stay out of the water as much as possible since it can reduce their chances of contracting diseases such as skin infections, Leptospirosis, Diarrhoea and other water-borne diseases.

While appealing to parents and guardians, the Ministry mentioned, “Parents are also encouraged to keep their child/children out of the water as they are most at risk of contracting diseases.”