Experts warn about potential health risks caused by floodwater
Health experts and officials warn flooding can contaminate drinking water and cause health risks.
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources said floodwater can enter private wells and cause harm if not properly treated.
“Floodwater goes into the sewage pipes you get a backup of sewage, so you can get contaminated water,” said Dr. Christopher Sampson, an emergency medicine specialist.
He said bacteria in the water can cause gastrointestinal illnesses and skin infections.
“The most common disease in contaminated water is E. coli,” he said. “You can also find staph and strep bacteria.”
Sampson said people should drink bottled water or boil their water if they’re concerned about contamination.
The National Groundwater Association estimates the Midwest has more than 1 million wells possibly affected by contaminated floodwater, based off of Census Bureau data.
