Airborne and water-borne diseases, as well as snake bites, are some of the risks that are now on the high with flood waters subsiding in Central Province.
This was revealed by Dr Cindy Gaso, who is based at the Veifa’a mission run hospital.
The doctor also revealed that the hospital, which usually caters for the villagers, has also been affected by the flood.
“Sanitation and water will be a major issue,” she said.
“This may go on for at least six months or even a year.
“What is important now is the water supply; pit toilets were over flooded, flowing into the water wells, which causes decontamination.”
Dr Gaso noted that the recovery period will be a long one.
She said there have been cases coming in, including a couple of snake bite patients, one of whom was repatriated because the poison had spread through his body at a rapid rate.
Cases of malaria and other diseases are also rapidly rising, and health workers are anticipating more water-borne diseases.
Dr Gaso said they had been working closely with the provincial health office since the flood started and they have made progress, with a call from the office noting that a team will be sent down to assess the situation, especially the impact of flood on the hospital as well as hospital supplies.
The hospital is now catering for only the worst health cases, but the doctor hopes this may soon change for the better as many people will definitely be needing medical attention.
(Loop file pic)