The destruction of homes and communities in the aftermath of the flooding in West Virginia is tragic, and the cleanup itself creates the potential for serious and long-lasting threats to health, warns the American Lung Association. The Lung Association stresses the importance of beginning the cleanup effort as soon as flood waters recede and following proven tips to reduce health risks. Germs and other dangerous substances found in flood waters can pose health risks to West Virginia area residents. Dampness breeds bacteria, viruses and mold. All water must be removed to prevent the growth of mold and protect respiratory health.
“ Most of those at greatest risk will be people with underlying lung conditions such as COPD and asthma. The combination of heat mixed with heavier exposures to dust and pollens during cleanup efforts can lead to those and other conditions getting worse, so it is harder for them to breathe. Molds can also cause serious breathing problems during the cleanup even in healthy individuals- especially where damp carpets and rugs have set for weeks. People should take extra precautions and wear equipment such as gloves, eye and mask protection. Keep in mind to guard all entry ways from irritants and bacteria during the cleanup. And if respiratory flare ups do occur, go to your Pulmonologist or Primary Care Physician immediately.” – Dr. Tom Takubo, Pulmonary Associates of Charleston, PLLC
The American Lung Association offers guidelines to help you and your family stay healthy after flooding. Damaged materials and furnishings should be discarded, including any items that cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried within 24 to 48 hours. Simply drying out water will not remove the bacteria or toxins that can make people sick. Furniture and other personal belongings covered by water should be discarded to prevent mold growth. Other dangerous substances in floodwater can include chemicals, oil and gas which can saturate materials in the home and give off harmful gases.
Use soap and water instead of bleach for cleaning efforts. Avoid using air cleaning devices that emit ozone, which has not been proven to clean indoor air and can actually harm lung health. Individuals with lung disease or those with high risk of developing lung disease should seek help cleaning their homes and workplaces after floods.
If more than 10 square feet of your home is flooded, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends hiring professional cleaners. Mold flourishes in this environment and attempting to clean without professional help may increase the risk of developing respiratory problems.
Getting help for health conditions worsened by the impact of flooding may be harder, too. People may be disconnected from doctors, pharmacies and medical care as a result of evacuation, the long recovery, relocation and lack of resources associated with the flooding.
For more information on cleaning up after a flood, contact the American Lung Association Lung HelpLine at 1-800-LUNGUSA
