Stay Safe, Stay Strong - Essential Health Tips and Services in Flood Times

"In the face of adversity, we find our greatest strength."

This sentiment, recently echoed by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum amid the UAE's flood crisis, captures the nation's resilient spirit.

As rains continue to submerge parts of Sharjah and other parts of UAE, leaving streets and homes waterlogged, the community also faces a dire health emergency. Residents are becoming trapped in environments tainted with sewage-infested waters, leading to serious health issues. This is particularly among children who are suffering from symptoms like vomiting and diarrhoea due to possible water contamination.

In response, healthcare providers across the region have risen to the occasion and are offering vital support. Facilities such as the Prime Specialist Medical Center and Aster DM Healthcare have begun providing free medical services and medication.

This proactive approach is a testament to a community united, determined to ensure that no one faces these overwhelming challenges alone.

Health Tips for Flood-Affected Areas

For those in the affected areas, here are some practical tips to help safeguard your health:

• Avoid Contact with Floodwater: Floodwater can be contaminated with sewage and other pollutants. Limit exposure by wearing rubber boots and gloves if you must come into contact with the water.
• Use Clean Water: Ensure that the water used for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene is clean and safe. If you suspect that tap water is contaminated, use bottled water or boil tap water for at least one minute before use.
• Maintain Personal Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and clean water, especially before eating or handling food, after using the toilet, and after coming into contact with floodwater.
• Prevent Mosquito Borne Diseases: Stagnant water can increase the risk of diseases like dengue and malaria. Use insect repellent and sleep under mosquito nets if available.
• Seek Medical Attention for Illness: Promptly seek medical help if you or someone in your family shows symptoms of waterborne diseases, such as diarrhoea, vomiting, or fever. Tele-consultation services are available for those who cannot reach medical facilities in person.
• Stay Informed and Prepared: Keep up-to-date with local news for any updates on the situation and follow any directives issued by health authorities.

Other Essential Safety Tips

Keep the following safety tips in mind:

• Weather Alerts and Monitoring: Stay informed about the weather by keeping track of updates and alerts from the National Center of Meteorology (NCM). These alerts help residents understand the severity of the situation and take necessary actions​.
• Home and Property Precautions: Before extreme weather hits, make sure that your home's electrical systems and water sewerage channels are well maintained to prevent water damage and accidents. Secure outdoor items and use waterproof containers for valuable possessions​.
• Emergency Kits and Plans: Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as first aid supplies, torches, and alternative lighting. Familiarise yourself with emergency evacuation routes and plans, especially in areas prone to flooding.
• During the Storm: If you are caught at home during a storm, keep all windows are closed and avoid using electrical devices connected to power outlets until the storm passes.

Emergency Contacts and Services

For emergencies and immediate healthcare needs, residents can contact the following:

• Prime Specialist Medical Center, Safeer Branch: Open for emergencies with free medications. Available until 7pm on Sundays.
• Aster DM Healthcare: Offering support and emergency services. Individuals are encouraged to describe their situations for better assistance through their dedicated links.

Tele-consultation Services for Water-Borne Diseases

For tele-consultation services, please reach out to the following individuals:

Contact Person or Service	Contact Number	Availability
Mr. Nihad Abdul Nazir	+971 55 337 9975	Emergency Contact
Mr. Jasim Gigi	+971 50 884 9725	Emergency Contact
Ms. Khoula Ali Abdulrahman Ali Alshehhi	+971 55 568 8661	Emergency Contact
Mr. Siraj	+971 55 700 9099	Emergency Contact
Mr. Asif	+971 55 700 9159	Emergency Contact
Mr. Praveen	+971 55 700 9279	Emergency Contact
Mr. Bharatraj	+971 52 605 7071	Emergency Contact
Mr. Shabad	+971 55 227	Emergency Contact
Dr. Binu Thomas (Internal Medicine)	+971 50 788 9684	Until 9pm
Dr. Sabeena Ali Akbar (Internal Medicine)	+971 50 637 9389	Until 6pm
Dr. Safarulla Khan (Internal Medicine)	+971 50 590 6864	Until 9pm
Dr. Sajitha Prasad (Family Medicine)	+971 56 181 8167	Until 6pm
Dr. Jamaludeen Abubacker (Paediatrician)	+971 50 614 5882	Until 9pm

In these trying times, the resilience and solidarity of the community are crucial. By following these guidelines and utilising the available resources, residents can help mitigate the health impacts of the floods and move towards recovery.

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By: Nupur Jain