COCKE COUNTY, Tenn. — Cleanup efforts are continuing across Appalachia after Hurricane Helene brought devastating flooding. Among dangerous debris in the water could also be bacteria and toxins that could make people sick.
Disaster epidemiologist Daire Jansson Glanville said families should take steps to remain safe while cleaning up flood damage.
"There definitely can be growth of bacteria in floodwater," she said. "Contamination from sewage, both animal and human waste as well as chemicals from household products, chemicals that you find in your car. "
This epidemiologist said it's important to wear personal protective equipment such as gloves, waterproof boots, long sleeves, long pants and facial coverings — especially a N-95 mask. The equipment can help prevent people from coming into contact with dangerous substances.
"When you're talking about contaminated water, you definitely don't want that anywhere near your mouth," she said. "When you're talking about smaller particulate matter from debris and maybe even spores of pathogens growing, that's where N-95s will be much more effective."
Jannson Glanville also said people at risk of getting sick should limit or avoid storm clean-up work if possible. Those can include elderly people, immunocompromised people, people with asthma, people who are pregnant and small children.
"We're talking, unfortunately, about areas and people that are not really used to this level of flooding," said Jannson Glanville. "Perhaps they didn't have the same level of preparedness as people who live in Florida who are used to having a hurricane season every year. That can further complicate the situation."
She also said people working to clean up after hurricanes should get hepatitis and tetanus shots since they might be more exposed to materials harming their health.
Cocke County residents can access some PPE products like at First United Methodist Church of Newport, according to their website.