Doctor warns of health risks after floods

A CLONMEL doctor yesterday warned of physical and mental health risks in the wake of the floods which deluged up to 100 homes and businesses in the town last Friday.

The doctor, who asked not to be named, said some flood victims may be unable to cope with the emotional and psychological trauma triggered by the flood damage.

Others, he said, will be at risk of chest infections and allergies, due to the dampness in houses.

“I see the emotional trauma as a big problem for some people. This may bring along depression and anxiety as a result of the psychological upset caused by the floods. Some may not have insurance cover and people will have a problem coping,” the doctor said.

He also said local doctors will expect to have increased numbers of patients presenting at surgeries in coming weeks with chest infections and allergy related conditions.

Dampness caused by past floods brought about increased incidence of some illnesses, particularly respiratory conditions.

“I will not be surprised to see people coming into the surgery over the coming months with chest infection and other problems,” he said.

A spokesperson for the South Eastern Health Board said their environmental health officers are liaising with shops affected by the flooding to advise them on the disposal of contaminated food products.

Local electrical shops yesterday reported a huge demand for dehumidifiers which are used to dry and air damp buildings.

Paul Gunne of Slattery Vision in Poppy Park shopping centre said: “We sold about 30 or 40 dehumidifiers yesterday. They cost between €150 and €200.”

As no major electrical outlet had been affected by the floods, Mr Gunne said there would be no problem meeting the anticipated demand for electrical appliances in coming days.

“At present people are returning to their homes and are devastated. In the coming days they will be assessing what needs to be replaced. They are also looking into their insurance and waiting to see if there will be government help,” Mr Gunne said.

Liz O’Brien, like many others, spent yesterday scrubbing down floors and walls with disinfectant.

She said repairing the damage to the family home will cost as much as €20,000.

“We have no insurance, as we are in a high risk area. We have been flooded five times now and we could have built a new house with the money we have paid out already and will have to pay out now in flood repairs. We will have to replace most of the electrical appliances,” Mrs O’Brien said.

She is also concerned about the health implications of the flood as both herself and her young son Shane, aged 10, suffer from asthma.