ROSEAU – The Ministry of Health has raised concerns over health issues that can occur following disasters like Tropical Storm Erika.
Chief medical officer, Dr David Johnson says the Ministry is concerned about water-borne diseases.
“We know that there is a scarcity of water on the island with some communities more affected than others. There are some diseases that are water-borne and can cause gastroenteritis, vomiting and diarrhoea so we are concerned.
Director of primary healthcare, Dr Laura Esprit shared some of the ways of purifying water to make it safe for drinking. These include boiling or treatment using water purification tablets being distributed by the environmental health arm of the Ministry of Health.
In addition, she cautioned against purchasing local juices if persons are unsure of the quality of the water being used to make those juices.
Hand washing is also of utmost importance.
Dr Esprit advises, “In areas that still do not have water or where your sewage has been affected, attention must be paid to proper disposal of human waste followed by hand washing. Hand washing is absolutely necessary at this time. In the absence of running water, please avoid washing your hands in basins rather pour water over your hands for washing. In the absence of water, hand sanitiser can be used but please remember hand washing with soap and water is more effective.” (GIS Dominica)
