Expert warns of health risks as stagnant floodwaters persist

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A week after Tropical Storm Debby hit the Carolinas, there is standing floodwater in many areas of the Cape Fear. 

Floodwater and standing water can be dangerous to your health. 

Toni Scollins is the injury and violence prevention coordinator with Novant Health.  

Beneath the surface—she said—there could be hidden objects that can cause injury, and that strong undercurrents can pull you off your feet.  

Standing water can also make you vulnerable to infectious diseases, chemical hazards, and other injuries.  

Scollins said there have been an increase in water-related injuries. 

“The trauma center at Novant New Hanover Regional Medical Center has seen an increase in falls,” she said. “We’ve also seen people coming in with injuries such as lacerations, skin infections after being in stagnant water or walking in storm water, or trying to get rid of storm water from their property.” 

To kill young mosquitoes, and prevent them from laying eggs around your home, Scollins recommends emptying stagnant water from outside containers at least once a week.