Emergency Worker
Health Tips from DHHState health officials are
issuing an infectious disease advisory for rescue workers who will
be entering the area impacted by Hurricane Katrina. This advisory
is directed towards: utilities workers, rescue personnel,
emergency medical services staff, fire fighters, military
personnel, and law enforcement personnel.
As operations in the affected area continue the risks of
infectious diseases are rising. At this point, many people have
sheltered in close quarters with limited or no access to running
water or hygiene facilities. In addition, the floodwaters
inundating the area provide a medium to carry several infectious
diseases. As such, rescue workers should follow the guidelines
below:
Food/water Borne Diseases
Many of the illnesses faced in these situations are the
result of people swallowing contaminated materials. It is
important to wash hands as regularly as possible and use hand
sanitizers if available. Additionally, avoid swallowing any
water that has not been appropriately treated and only eat
food that has been properly prepared.
It is important to stay well hydrated while working in this
climate. Currently, only bottled water is considered safe for
drinking. If bottled water is not available, water from other
sources is to be boiled for at least 10 minutes at a rolling
boil. If this is not possible, disinfect one gallon of clear
water with 1/4 tablespoon of fresh chlorine bleach.
Food is essential for the optimal functioning of rescuers;
however, it is important that only properly stored and
prepared food be consumed. When possible, rescuers should take
advantage of the specially prepared food provided for them. Do
not eat fresh or cooked foods that have been contaminated by
floodwater or that have not been effectively refrigerated or
contained. This includes fruit and vegetables.
Bloodborne Diseases
When handling patients or victims, it is always important for
rescuers to practice standard safety precautions to reduce the
risk of bloodborne pathogens. Universal precautions include
wearing protective gloves when handling patients or body fluids.
Airborne Diseases
Tuberculosis is endemic to Louisiana, and volunteers may
encounter people who have the disease. Tuberculosis is usually
transmitted by long-term close contact with people who are
shedding the bacteria that cause the disease. At this time,
tuberculosis is not considered to be a significant public health
concern for volunteers. However, if a patient or victim is
actively coughing, providing them with a surgical mask is an
appropriate precaution.
Other Diseases
Tetanus is a threat in any flood situation. This disease is
caused by a common bacteria that is present in the environment
and can cause lethal infections. Tetanus can be prevented with
proper vaccination.
Any bites or scratches from animals that rescuers incur
require immediate evaluation by a physician.
All injuries should be promptly and properly treated. All
wounds should be cleaned and bandaged until evaluation.
Animal and human remains may be encountered by rescuers.
These bodies pose little infectious disease risk to rescue and
recovery personnel; however it is still important to practice
proper health and safety precautions.
Vaccines
Vaccines are expected to be available to rescuers in the next
24 to 48 hours. The vaccines that have been ordered include
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Tetanus and Diphtheria. Vaccine will be
made available to volunteers who have not previously been
vaccinated for these diseases.
For more health and safety information following Hurricane
Katrina, visit
www.dhhemergencynews.com
