On Wednesday the Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH) issued guidance for first responders participating in flood response activities to prevent illness. For this guidance, see http://www.ri.gov/press/view/11072.
Many first responders have contacted HEALTH with specific questions about Hepatitis A. Floodwaters may contain raw sewage that can cause gastrointestinal infections such as norovirus or Hepatitis A, as well as other hazardous substances which can be harmful on contact or if inadvertently swallowed. However, Hepatitis A virus infections are not common in Rhode Island and the risk of spread through contaminated floodwaters is very low. A vaccine against Hepatitis A is available and is administered in two doses 6 months apart.
Rhode Islanders should seek medical treatment if they experience the following symptoms after working in floodwaters: yellow skin, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever or other symptoms of illness.
For all of HEALTH’s flood safety information, see www.health.ri.gov or call 222-5960.