Victorian Health Minister Daniel Andrews has outlined a number of measures residents can take to protect their health and safety once the floodwaters have receded and they can return to their homes and properties.

Visiting Wangaratta today, Mr Andrews said the Brumby Labor Government would work with all affected communities to ensure critical services were returned to normal as quickly as possible.

Mr Andrews is one of eight Brumby Government Ministers appointed by the Premier to a Flood Recovery Ministerial Taskforce to oversee the short and long-term recovery from the floods.

He received briefings from the Regional Emergency Operation Centre and the Wangaratta Rural City Council before touring the Water Treatment Plant and the Wangaratta Hospital.

“It’s important we hear and see first hand the impact these floods have had on the community,” Mr Andrews said.

“What we have again seen is the resilience and community spirit that makes Victoria such a great place to live.

“Everyone is working hard to help the community recover from the devastation these floods have caused, from volunteers from the SES and other organisations to workers from the Department of Health and Human Services and water authorities as well as many others.

“We know floods can bring public health issues and that’s why the Department of Health will continue to stringently monitor the situation over the next few months.”

Mr Andrews said good personal hygiene was vital as a number of infectious diseases, including gastrointestinal infections and hepatitis A, could spread through contact with contaminated water and surfaces.

“The likelihood of illness increases when floodwater contains material from sewage systems, agricultural or industrial wastes,” he said.

“Never use contaminated water to wash dishes, brush your teeth, wash your hands, wash and prepare food, make ice or make baby formula.

“Local water authorities will tell you if tap water is safe or unsafe. If a boil water notice is issued, water should be kept at a rolling boil for one minute to make sure bacteria are killed.

“If you suspect the water is contaminated with chemicals, boiling will not make it safe to drink – only use bottled water.

“Children and elderly people are particularly at risk from dehydration. Ensure they drink plenty of safe (bottled) water until the drinking water supply is declared safe.

“An above ground rainwater tank that has not been inundated with floodwaters or damaged should be safe for continued use.”

Mr Andrews said floodwaters could affect food through direct contact or, indirectly because of interruptions to the power supply.

“Food that has come into direct contact with floodwater should be thrown away as well as any food that has an unusual odour, colour or texture,” he said.

“Any perishable foods including meat, poultry, fish, eggs or leftovers that have been left at above five degrees Celsius for more than four hours should also be discarded as well as canned food if the can is open, bulging or damaged.

“If you or anyone in your family feels unwell, seek medical advice from your local doctor.”

A range of resources to assist flood-affected residents are available on the web and these have also been provided as a part of the flood packs distributed in hard copy to flood affected areas.

Visit http://www.dhs.vic.gov.au/emergency/current-events/flood_recovery/health_matters

Before going back to your property you should consider:
•    Damaged gas or electricity supplies – these hazards need to be declared safe by a qualified electrician and plumber;
•    The structural integrity of home and structures may be affected – this needs to be declared safe by a qualified building surveyor;
•    Wild animals including rodents, snakes or spiders may be trapped in and around homes;
•    Cuts from broken glass and debris are also a problem – wear sturdy waterproof boots and rubber or leather gloves;
•    Food may be contaminated by the floodwater, or spoiled due to power failure;
•    Drinking water may be contaminated – do not drink any water unless you know it is safe (bottled, boiled or disinfected);
•    Wading or playing in floodwater is hazardous due to the risk of drowning and potential skin infection through open wounds coming into contact with the floodwater;
•    Mosquitoes can breed rapidly and become a nuisance – cover skin with long sleeves and pants, and use an insect repellent;
•    If possible, use flashlights or other battery operated lights instead of candles. Do not smoke or use matches, lighters or other open flames in case gas has collected inside;
•    Pets and other animals may have died and need to be removed. For advice on safe disposal speak to your local council or veterinarian;
•    Flooding can cause excessive mould growth, which must be cleaned up before moving back home;
•    Flooding may cause sewage to overflow inside homes. Contaminated areas must be cleaned and disinfected. Keep children and pets away until clean up is completed; and
•    Septic tank system may need to be inspected and cleaned.