State’s top doctor says floodwaters don’t pose higher risk

With Eastern Iowans in the midst of flood waters, are some at risk for infectious diseases? State epidemiologist Dr. Patricia Quinlisk says there’s not much to worry about. Quinlisk says simple contact with flood water is not risky, but she says there may be some risk for those who are knee-deep in the water and get a cut.Quinlisk says tetanus shots are not necessary in most cases.But, she says if you are working in flood water or have a wound, it’s best to contact your health care provider to make sure your tetanus shots are up to date. Quinlisk says people who swallow flood water may get ill because of the raw sewage being emptied into the Mississippi. The state health department is working with county health departments to ensure that vaccines are available in flooded counties.