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The Florida Department of Health in Jefferson and Madison counties would like all residents to use caution during this time of clean-up and recovery. Following are tips to consider at this time.
Make sure your tetanus shot is up-to-date. If you have a cut or puncture wound and it has been more than 10 years since your last tetanus shot, you need to get a tetanus booster. See your healthcare provider if you have a serious cut or puncture wound. You can get a tetanus shot through your healthcare provider, or by walking into the health department.
Basic hygiene is especially important during this time. Always wash your hands with soap and water before eating, as well as after helping with clean-up activities, after handling contaminated food and other items, and after toilet use.
If your electricity was out for more than four hours, refrigerated items need to be discarded, unless they were kept cool with ice. Freezer items that thawed also need to be discarded. When in doubt, throw it out.
Incorrect use of generators during power outages can be hazardous. The primary hazards to avoid when using a generator are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust, electric shock or electrocution, and fire. Follow the directions provided with the generator. Never use a generator indoors. This includes inside a garage, carport, basement, crawlspace, or other enclosed or partially-enclosed area, even with ventilation.
Widespread power outages during the summer months can directly impact vulnerable populations such as the elderly and medically frail. If you have older adult relatives or neighbors, you can help them protect themselves from heat-related stress by:
Visit older adults at least twice a day and watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Encourage them to increase their fluid intake by drinking cool, nonalcoholic beverages regardless of their activity level. Take them to air-conditioned locations if they have transportation problems.
Do not use water that may be contaminated to mix with powdered infant formula. Use boiled water or commercially bottled water.
In addition, be aware of increased mosquito activity and take steps to reduce your risk of mosquito-borne illnesses, including the Zika virus. Following are steps to prevent mosquitoes:
Drain: water from garbage cans, birdbaths, other containers that can collect water.
Discard: Old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that aren't being used.
Empty and clean: Birdbaths and pet's water bowls at least once or twice a week. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use. Maintain the proper water balance in swimming pools.
Maintain: Screened entry ways to prevent mosquitoes! Repair broken screens on windows, doors, porches, and patios.
Clothing: If you must be outside when mosquitoes are active, cover up. Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and long sleeves.
Repellent: Use insect repellant that contains 25 percent deet to prevent mosquito bites. Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing. Always use repellents according to the label. Repellents with deet, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, and IR3535 are effective. Use netting to protect children younger than two months.
The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.
Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.