Politics & Government

Don't Let Contaminated Food or Water Make Your Family Sick

Infections often increase after floods due the contaminants spread by the water.

With widespread flooding and power outages following Hurricane Irene and associated flood damage to homes and businesses, the Somerset County Public Health & Safety Department would like to remind all Somerset County residents to be mindful of potential public health and safety hazards commonly experienced after natural disasters. 

Some examples of such hazards are sanitation and hygiene, environmental concerns, food and water, and animal- and insect-related hazards.

Residents with concerns should contact their town’s health department.  Residents with Internet access can find a listing of local health departments in Somerset County at www.co.somerset.nj.us/health/localhealth.htm.  

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“Knowing what to do is the surest way to keep you and your family safe,” said Freeholder Peter S. Palmer, health and public safety liaison. “Residents are encouraged to visit the Somerset County Health Department website at www.co.somerset.nj.us/health for a wide range of public health and safety resources.”

Short bouts of diarrhea, upset stomach and colds or other respiratory diseases sometimes occur after a natural disaster.  It’s important to assess all food to decide what to keep or throw away. 

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Do not eat any food that may have come into contact with flood water. If in doubt, throw it out! 

Perishable food such as meat, poultry, seafood, milk, and eggs that are not kept adequately refrigerated or frozen may cause illness if consumed, even when they are thoroughly cooked.

Basic hygiene measures such as frequent hand washing or use of an alcohol-based hand sanitizer before eating - and especially after using the restroom or changing diapers - can help prevent diseases.  Although hand-washing recommendations may seem simplistic, they are important in stopping the spread of many diseases.

When cleaning up after a storm, it’s important to wear protective gear such hard hats, goggles, heavy-work gloves, and watertight boots with steel toes and insoles (not just steel shank boots).

Also, after a disaster, it’s important that anyone affected by the storm be alert to physical and emotional exhaustion or strain.  Set priorities for cleanup tasks, pace the work and try not to work alone.  If necessary, ask family members, friends or professionals for support and, if needed, seek professional help.


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