THERE is a high probability of water-borne diseases in the aftermath of Severe Tropical Cyclone Winston.
Speaking during a briefing at the Commissioner Western’s office yesterday, medical officials pointed out a number of people had resorted to bathing and washing in creeks and rivers since water supply was disrupted.
Commissioner Western Manasa Tagicakibau admitted there was a need for teams to supply fresh and clean water to rural communities to prevent an outbreak of diseases such as leptospirosis and typhoid.
“We are urging people to refrain from bathing and washing in unclean rivers and streams,” he said.
“From our side, we need to cart water quickly. We will be hiring contractors who we used to hire to cart water during the dry season.”
He said there were a few contractors who offered to provide assistance.
He added they had one that came in yesterday.
“He offered two of his 10,000 litre water trucks, complete with pumps, to cart water to affected areas and we are grateful for this type of assistance.”
Meanwhile, Mr Tagicakibau also said health teams would provide regular updates on the provisions available at subdivisional hospitals as well as health centres.
He said they would address potential medical shortages if there was a need.
