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Tim Vandenack, Standard-Examiner
The Ogden River adjacent to Park Boulevard in Ogden, photographed Feb. 21, 2023. Ogden authorities are raising warnings about the dangers of fast-moving water brought on by increased snowmelt as temperatures start to rise.
With all the flooding from a hardy winter, Utahns’ first concern may be to protect their home and vehicles. But medical experts say residents should be aware of threats to their health lurking in those turbulent waters.
“The runoff along the Wasatch Front is going to be torrential. When flooding occurs, it can cause physical damage and debris, but also contamination,” said Dr. Chad Bittner, chief physician executive of Optum Medical Network Utah and president of the board of the Utah Chapter of the American Heart Association. “People have to really be aware of that and take precautions when they’re dealing with floodwaters.”
Not only can floodwaters carry sewage runoff, it can also have dangerous pieces of broken glass, metal, wood and mold, chemicals like gasoline and paint, animal and livestock waste, and even downed power lines. A person who has a scratch or open wound could end up with a viral or bacterial infection. Chemicals can also seep into the skin and cause systemic health problems, Bittner said.
“I think the first thing to think about is covering any open wound before you even go out into those waters. Clean them out thoroughly and cover them with waterproof bandages,” he said. “And if it’s been 10 years or more since you’ve gotten a tetanus shot, go and get it.”
Swallowing contaminated water can also cause gastrointestinal problems, according to UCLA Health. This can cause diarrhea, vomiting and stomach pain, especially in children who tend to put things in their mouths. Standing water, damp buildings and soggy items can also cause mold and bacterial growth, which can trigger allergic reactions or cause asthma to develop or worsen.
In addition to covering scrapes and open wounds, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests other precautions to take when dealing with the floodwaters. They include wearing proper clothing such as rubber boots, rubber gloves, hats and goggles. It’s also important to stay out of rivers, ponds, lakes and streams that have been contaminated.
If you develop a fever, rash, redness, pain and swelling around a wound, or intestinal issues, seek medical care right away.
“If you don’t feel well after being exposed to floodwaters, it’s best to go in and be evaluated by your health care provider,” Bittner said. “Being safe is our first concern no matter what you’re doing out there.”
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