The Importance Of Handling Open Wounds During Floods To Prevent Infection

Illustration of dealing with wounds when hitting floods (Freepik)

JAKARTA - Rainy seasons come and floods hit, the risk of disease increases, especially if there are open wounds on the skin. Flood water is often polluted by bacteria, viruses, and dirt that can enter the body through wounds, even small ones.

Therefore, it is important to immediately clean and cover the wound so that it does not become an entry point for more serious infections.

General practitioner and health educator, Kevin Mak, emphasized that open wounds must immediately get treatment when exposed to flood water. According to him, bacteria carried by flood water can easily enter the body through wounds, and this can trigger infection.

"If there are parts of the body that are injured, they must be cleaned immediately with running water or an antiseptic liquid, then covered with plaster so that they are not exposed to flood water," Kevin said at an event to launch the wound plaster product in Jakarta, as quoted by ANTARA.

He also reminded that small wounds should not be ignored. Wounds should always be covered in order to avoid potential infections that can cause further complications.

In addition, Kevin suggested that the plaster of the wound be replaced periodically, especially if it is wet or dirty. Generally, plaster can be used between six and 12 hours, depending on the condition of the wound and the activities carried out.

Kevin also appealed to parents to keep an eye on their children from playing or swimming in floodwaters.

"Direct and dirty flood water can carry bacteria. If it enters the wound, it can be dangerous," he explained.

Maintaining wound hygiene and preventing direct exposure to floodwaters is a simple but very important step to protect health during the flood season.