Researchers from the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) identified 119 water collection points in Rio Grande do Sul and warned that many are located close to or directly within flooded areas, which could compromise water quality and safety.
“This scenario poses significant risks to public health, as contamination of drinking water is one of the most serious consequences of flooding,” states the study. Restrictions to areas due to flooding may also make it difficult to supply water to affected people.
The analysis was based on data from the General Coordination of Environmental Surveillance (CGVAM) through Vigiágua and the areas affected by the flood and published this Tuesday (21)
In addition to the daily water supply, the technical note also highlights that these points are vital for emergency response operations, in order to offer essential resources for communities and relief operations.
In a note to CNN Companhia Riograndense de Saneamento (Corsan) said that the water collected from riverbeds by the company's stations goes through a rigorous treatment protocol and carries out 500 analyzes daily per station.
3 thousand healthcare establishments affected
The document shows that 3,000 health establishments (such as hospitals, health centers, pharmacies and private clinics) were affected by the floods in Rio Grande do Sul. See the numbers of units affected:
- Isolated offices: 1170
- Specialized clinics and health centers : 548
- Pharmacies: 224
Regarding the impacts, the researchers warn of operational difficulties in clinics and health centers for the treatment of chronic conditions and medical emergencies that are not directly related to the disaster. Demand for medicines is still expected to increase “drastically”.
“This situation highlights the need for a robust public health strategy that must address both the immediate demands during a disaster and strengthen the resilience of health infrastructures for future events”, states the note.
The study believes that investments in physical improvements, staff training for rapid responses and efficient communication systems will be vital to ensuring the integrity of public health.
The State Health Department (SES) was questioned by CNN about the risk of water contamination and the impact on health units and has not yet returned.
Source: CNN Brasil
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