Ask the Doctor

Q: I’m 24 and had to wade through floodwater. Now I have itching and red rashes on my legs. What should I do?

A: Floodwater carries bacteria and chemicals that can irritate the skin. Wash with clean soap and water, apply antiseptic if needed, and keep the area dry. If redness spreads, see a doctor, it could be an infection.

Q: My 32-year-old brother developed fever and chills after being in waterlogged areas. Could this be serious?

A: Yes. Fever after flood exposure may be due to hepatitis or other infections. He must get tested and start treatment early. Do not ignore fever in such situations.

Q: I’m worried about drinking water safety after the floods. What should we do at home?

A: Always boil water for at least 10 minutes or use chlorine tablets. Avoid untreated water even if it looks clear. Safe drinking water is the best protection against diarrhea, cholera, and jaundice.

Q: My child, 10, has loose motions since yesterday. Could this be from contaminated water?

A: Very likely. Give ORS solution immediately and keep the child hydrated. Avoid street food. If motions continue or there is blood/dehydration, see a doctor quickly.

Q: I feel anxious and unable to sleep because of constant rain and flood news. Is this normal?

A: Yes, disaster situations often cause stress, anxiety, and insomnia. Limit overexposure to distressing news, practice calming routines, and talk to family/friends. If anxiety persists, consult a doctor.

Q: Many of us have mosquito bites after waterlogging. Should we worry?

A: Standing water increases mosquitoes. Use mosquito repellents, cover arms/legs, and avoid stagnant water near homes. Fever with body ache after bites needs medical attention.

Q: I’m 55 and have diabetes. How can I stay safe in such flood conditions?

A: Keep your medicines dry and accessible. Avoid walking barefoot in floodwater. Maintain safe diet and hydration. Report any wounds or infections early, as diabetes slows healing.

Q: Can cloudburst-related stress cause heart problems? I felt chest tightness last night.

A: Yes, extreme stress and panic can trigger palpitations, high BP, or even angina in people at risk. If chest tightness repeats or worsens, get an ECG and doctor’s check immediately.

Q: After cleaning our waterlogged house, I’m coughing constantly. Could it be harmful?

A: Yes, damp walls release mold spores, causing cough, asthma and allergies. Wear a mask during cleaning, ventilate the house, and dry wet areas quickly. If cough persists, consult a doctor.

Q: What symptoms after flood exposure should make me seek medical care immediately?

A: High fever with chills, yellowing of eyes, severe stomach pain, persistent diarrhea, blood in urine, or unexplained rashes after being in floodwater need urgent medical attention. These may indicate infections like leptospirosis, hepatitis, or cholera.

Q: I am in waterlogged areas—what early signs should I watch for in the coming days?

A: Watch for persistent cough, breathlessness, leg swelling, redness or pus in wounds and unusual fatigue. These could signal respiratory infections, skin infections, or waterborne diseases that require timely treatment.

Q: How can I keep my medicines and insulin safe during floods or power cuts?

A: Store medicines in waterproof pouches. Keep insulin in a cool place, use an insulated box with ice packs (not direct ice). Most insulin stays stable at room temperature for a few days, but consult your doctor if unsure.

5 Rules for Flood Health Safety

Boil or purify drinking water – never drink directly from taps or wells.

Avoid floodwater contact – wear boots/slippers; don’t walk barefoot.

Prevent mosquito breeding – keep surroundings dry.

Store medicines safely – keep them dry and accessible in an emergency kit.

Care for mental health – stay connected with family, avoid panic, seek help if stress worsens.

 NOTE: These responses are for general awareness, not a substitute for medical advice.

Ask your questions at: WhatsApp: 6005463346, Email: ask@moulmoujfoundation.org