Floods
During a flood and its aftermath, there are some basic facts to remember that will help protect your personal health and safety.
- Tetanus vaccination during floods
NEW! Jun 23, 2008, 6:00 PM ET
Exposure to flood waters does not increase the risk of tetanus, and tetanus immunization campaigns are not needed. While documentation of vaccination is preferred, it should not be a pre-requisite for work. During flood cleanup, the risk of wounds may be increased. For this reason, workers should be sure that they are up-to-date with tetanus vaccination, ideally before starting cleanup activities. Adults need a tetanus booster shot every 10 years. Td or Tdap can be used; getting Tdap instead of Td for one tetanus booster during adulthood is recommended to maintain protection against pertussis. Being up-to-date for tetanus vaccine can greatly simplify the treatment for any wound that might occur. See tetanus vaccine recommendations for more information.
Before the Storm
After the Storm
- Key Facts About Hurricane & Flood Recovery
- Keep Food & Water Safe Updated Jun 18, 2008, 6:00 PM ET
- Sanitation & Hygiene
- When the Power Goes Out
- Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
- Animals & Insects
- Reentering Your Flooded Home
- Cleanup of Flood Water
- Mold After a Disaster
- Precautions After a Flood
- Electrical Hazards
- Content source: CDC Emergency Communication System (ECS), Division of Health Communication and Marketing (DHCM), National Center for Health Marketing (NCHM)
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