By Martha Taumata Faavae
The Director General of Health, Leausa Dr. Take Naseri, has sounded a public health alarm for extra care as the risks of infections and diseases rise with repeated flooding in congested urban population areas.
General cleanliness at home and boiled water are high on the health priority list with the risk of dirty water overflowing into water intakes from flooding rivers.
The children are the most high risk groups who are to be at the top of the watch and care lists.
Any small injury that cuts the skin must be attended to quickly to prevent against infection.
Adults must be more safety aware also of little things like leaving hot boiled water within the reach of children.
A noticeable health trend at the end of a flooding is children suffering from diarrhea and the flu so a strong reminder is being made to parents.
Old folks under medication must make sure they have enough tablets and other medicines around. It will avoid any emergencies when flooding closes off access to pharmacies or hospitals.
Added attention is also being urged for people with special needs at times like this. Nursing mothers are encouraged to breastfeed to cut down on the risks of contamination from the preparations of bottled milk.
Other general health watch include pests like rats and cockroaches forced into the homes with their habitats underwater.
Wading in the water in residential areas where homes are close together can be a health risk from the overflow of septic tanks.
Meanwhile, district hospital services with resident doctors are available in the villages when needed.