What Diseases are Caused by Floods?

What Diseases are Caused by Floods?

Floods disrupt daily life and pose serious health risks to affected communities. In Malaysia, floods are frequent, especially during monsoon seasons. The stagnant water and unsanitary conditions during floods create an ideal environment for disease outbreaks. Waterborne and vector-borne diseases surge as floodwaters carry harmful pathogens. Leptospirosis, a common post-flood disease, demands particular attention. Awareness and proper precautions can prevent the spread of diseases. Pantai Hospitals prioritise community health and offer guidance on managing flood-related health risks. This article outlines the most common diseases caused by floods and how to protect yourself and your family.

Which Waterborne Diseases Are Most Common After Floods?

Floodwaters are often contaminated with bacteria and viruses that cause severe health issues. The most common diseases include:

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is caused by contact with water contaminated by animal urine. This bacterial infection poses significant risks during floods.

• Causes: The Leptospira bacteria thrive in floodwaters mixed with animal waste. Direct contact can lead to infection.
• Symptoms: Symptoms include high fever, muscle pain, headaches, and nausea. Severe cases may cause liver or kidney damage.
• Statistics: Malaysia recorded a spike in leptospirosis cases after recent floods. Quick medical care can prevent complications.

Cholera

Cholera is a diarrhoeal illness spread through contaminated water or food. It can escalate into outbreaks after floods.

• Causes: Vibrio cholerae bacteria spread through polluted drinking water. Poor sanitation worsens the situation.
• Symptoms: Symptoms include watery diarrhoea, dehydration, and cramps. Severe dehydration can lead to death if untreated.
• Prevention: Boil drinking water and maintain hygiene to reduce the risk of infection.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a viral disease transmitted through contaminated water. It remains a concern during and after floods.

• Causes: The virus spreads via faecal-oral routes, often through unclean water or poor hygiene.
• Symptoms: Symptoms include jaundice, fatigue, and stomach pain. Children and the elderly face higher risks.
• Prevention: Vaccinations and clean water access reduce the likelihood of outbreaks. 

How Do Floods Influence Vector-Borne Diseases?

Floods also increase the prevalence of diseases spread by vectors such as mosquitoes and rodents. These include:

Dengue Fever

Dengue fever cases surge after floods as stagnant water becomes mosquito breeding grounds.

1. Causes: Aedes mosquitoes thrive in pools of stagnant floodwater. They carry the dengue virus, infecting humans.
2. Symptoms: High fever, severe headaches, joint pain, and rashes are common symptoms of dengue.
3. Prevention: Use insect repellents and eliminate standing water near your home to reduce mosquito populations.

Malaria

Malaria is another vector-borne disease that increases after floods, particularly in rural areas.

1. Causes: Anopheles mosquitoes spread the malaria parasite. Floods create an ideal environment for these mosquitoes.
2. Symptoms: Symptoms include fever, chills, sweating, and muscle pain. Severe cases can result in organ damage.
3. Prevention: Mosquito nets and antimalarial medication can protect against malaria.

Rat-Borne Diseases

Rats thrive in flood debris, spreading diseases such as hantavirus and leptospirosis.

1. Causes: Flood conditions force rats into closer contact with humans. Their waste contaminates water sources.
2. Prevention: Proper waste disposal and pest control reduce the risk of infection.

Why Is Flood Preparedness Key to Disease Prevention?

Flood preparedness plays a crucial role in reducing health risks. Simple precautions can prevent many diseases:

1. Clean Drinking Water: 

   Ensure access to clean water through boiling or filtration. Avoid consuming flood-contaminated water.

2. Good Hygiene Practices: 

   Wash hands thoroughly, especially before meals. Use soap and clean water to minimise contamination risks.

3. Insect Protection:

   Apply mosquito repellent and use nets to reduce exposure to mosquito-borne diseases.

Pantai Hospitals encourage proactive health measures to minimise post-flood health risks. Education and healthcare access are vital.

FAQs

1. Can leptospirosis lead to long-term health issues?

Yes, untreated leptospirosis can cause organ failure and long-term damage to kidneys or liver. Early treatment is critical.

2. How quickly do symptoms appear after flood-related exposure?

Symptoms vary but usually develop within days to weeks. Seek medical attention promptly if you feel unwell.

3. Are flood-related diseases preventable with vaccination?

Some diseases, like hepatitis A, are preventable with vaccines.

4. What should you do if you suspect contamination in drinking water?

Boil water for at least one minute before consuming. Alternatively, use certified water filters or bottled water.

5. Does wearing protective clothing reduce health risks during floods?

Yes, wearing waterproof boots and gloves reduces direct contact with contaminated water. This lowers infection risks.

Book an Appointment at Pantai Hospitals

Floods pose serious health risks, including the spread of diseases such as leptospirosis, cholera, dengue, and malaria. These waterborne and vector-borne diseases can lead to severe complications if not addressed promptly. If you or someone you know experiences symptoms like fever, muscle pain, headache, diarrhoea, or dehydration after a flood, it is essential to seek medical care right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent severe health consequences.

Pantai Hospitals are committed to safeguarding your health with advanced diagnostic services and comprehensive treatment options for flood-related diseases. Whether you are looking for medical advice on preventing infections or need immediate care, our team is ready to assist you.

Do not wait to protect yourself and your family—take proactive steps today. To book an appointment for a health screening, vaccine consultation, or flood-related disease diagnosis, please visit our website or download the MyHealth360 app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Our dedicated healthcare professionals are here to provide you with personalised care and support.

Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.