Ensure post-flood health protection

The recent flash floods in vast areas of Bangladesh, including Cumilla, Noakhali, and Feni, have severely affected the lives of many people. Countless individuals have lost their homes and even family members. The damage is immeasurable and cannot easily be remedied.

The good news is that water levels in the flood-affected areas have started to recede. However, a decrease in floodwater does not signal the end of all problems; rather, it marks the beginning of the struggle to stay healthy. As the water recedes, a new set of challenges emerges. Typically, during and after floods, waterborne and insect-borne diseases are most common. Children's health tends to deteriorate more than adults during this time. There is an increased risk of diseases like diarrhoea, pneumonia, skin infections, and other illnesses. Contaminated water often leads to outbreaks of waterborne diseases.

Therefore, it is crucial to be extra vigilant during the post-flood period. Both children and adults should be provided with boiled or purified water. Due to the floods, many tube-wells have become non-functional, so it's important to ensure that tube-well water is safe. Water purification tablets are available in the market and can be used to ensure clean drinking water.

There must also be a high level of caution regarding food consumption, and essential medicines and oral saline should always be within reach. Medical students across Bangladesh can oversee and assist in such situations. Additionally, pharmaceutical companies can extend a helping hand during this critical time.

Sadia Afrin Mouri

Student

Department of Law

Jagannath University

[email protected]