Five health facilities in Penang affected by floods

KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Health (MOH) has assured of continued medical and health services at five facilities in Penang affected by flash floods early today.
Health director-general Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said the five facilities are Penang Hospital, Mak Mandin Health Clinic, Lahar Yooi Rural Clinic, Perai Health Clinic and Taman Seri Delima 1Malaysia Clinic.
"At Penang Hospital and Perai Health Clinic, restoration and cleaning works are being carried out and will operate as usual tomorrow (Monday), while three other facilities are still flooded," he said in a statement.
No health facilities in Kedah and Perak were affected by floods.
Dr Noor Hisham urged the public to follow instruction from the authorities as contaminated flood water can cause infectious diseases such as diarrhoea, typhoid, hepatitis A and leptospirosis.
Direct contact with contaminated flood water may also cause infection to wounds, skin, eyes, ears, nose and throat.
"Dengue, chikungunya and malaria also need attention because the water containers become breeding grounds for Aedes and Anopheles mosquitoes during the rainy season.
"The floods also have a negative impact on chronic disease cases, pregnant women and increase the risk of injuries," he added.
Flood victims are advised to practice cleanliness by washing their hands with soap and clean water especially during food preparation and cleaning activities. — Bernama