For immediate release: September 7, 2011 Media Contact:
Communication Office Vermont Department of Health BURLINGTON –
The Vermont Department of Health is reminding residents and
volunteers to take all precautions to avoid injuries and illness
during cleanup work after the flooding. “We want everyone to
stay safe and healthy after the flood,” said Health Commissioner
Harry Chen, MD. “Experience from other states tells us that the
number one health risk comes from injuries during cleanup. And
although children want to help, give them tasks that keep them
out of harm’s way.” Residents, cleanup workers and volunteers do
not need to have a tetanus booster (Tdap) shot to work in the
flooded zone. Take precautions to avoid injury and exposure to
flood water if you have an open wound. Seek immediate medical
attention for wound care and a tetanus booster shot, if needed.
Health Department district office staff are distributing latex-
free gloves and N95 masks with instructions for use, along with
safe cleanup guidance