The obvious physical destruction of our recent storms hasn’t been the only cause of concern, with health officials calling for Maitland residents to steer clear of floodwater.
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With raw sewage and animal carcasses contaminating the receding floodwater, Hunter New England Health physician professor David Durrheim said even the smallest puddles could carry harmful pathogens.
“Tetanus spores occur frequently in floodwaters, as does E.coli and salmonella,” Dr Durrheim said.
“Any cuts or abrasions become portals for horrible infections.”
According to Hunter Water, the cause of contaminants was a combination of livestock and wild animal carcasses, as well as overflowing sewerage pump stations.
“We had numerous stations without power and they overflowed,” Hunter Water spokesperson Jeremy Bath said.
Even items or clothing that come in contact with floodwater should be considered contaminated.
Dr Durrheim said vigorous handwashing with sanitiser was the best defence against infection until the ultraviolet and evaporative powers of the sun safely disposed of the water.
Tetanus is a severe disease that can result in serious illness and death and is caused by clostridium tetani bacteria, which can be found in dust and animal faeces.
Salmonella is mainly spread to humans when they eat under-cooked food made from infected animals but can also be found in the stools of infected individuals from several days to several weeks or longer.
It can also be spread from animals to humans.
