ASSIGNMENT 1
BLOG WRITING (10%)

Most floods that occur are a natural result of cyclical monsoons during the local tropical wet season. Natural disaster such as floods makes an enormous impact on the environment and society.
The most common effect flood related disease is water-borne disease and vector-borne disease.
Waterborne disease is caused by pathogenic microorganism which is directly transmitted when contaminated drinking water is consumed and can cause Cholera and Typhoid. Contaminated drinking water, used in the preparation of food, can be the source of food borne disease through consumption of the same microorganisms.
Vector-borne disease that is usually transmitted via vectors or intermediate hosts include dengue, filariasis, Japanese encephalitis, leishmaniasis, malaria, onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis and trypanosomiasis. In addition, it has recently been confirmed that domestic flies play a significant role in the mechanical transmission of diarrhoeal diseases and trachoma.
Other flood –related disease which are not mentioned in the article is if your fields or farm building have been flooded, take special precaution against flood-related disease in poultry and livestock. Watch for signs of flood-related disease for animal a Black leg and Anthrax, Tetanus (Lockjaw), Foot Rot, Mastitis, Botulism, Brooder Pneumonia and Erysipelas. Puncture wounds can results in disease such as tetanus or other skin injuries can lead to local infections or more serious disease such as dermal anthrax or erysipelas.
Since floods and standing water can promote the growth of anaerobic pathogens, avoid contact very young, very old or persons with impaired immune function (e.g AIDS patients or cancer patients) are likely most susceptible.
Flood related disease also occur when airborne mold spores are present in large number, they can trigger allergic reactions, asthma episodes, infections and other respiratory problems. In addition, exposure can cause development of an allergy to mold, resulting in long term problems.
Leptospirosis, or Weil’s disease is a zoonotic bacterial disease associated predominantly with rats.Leptospirosis caused by exposure to water contamination with the urine of rat and other animal and the symptom include diarrhea, vomiting and kidney or liver problems.
The ways to curb one of the diseases are rodent control after a flood. Safety precautions and elimination following floods, rats and other rodents may move into buildings to escape flood waters. Snakes are often forced into places where they are not usually found. Upon reentering flooded homes or building, you will need to be wary of these possibilities. Rats can carry disease and parasites, while snakes may be poisonous or at least frightening. Neither poses serous problems but the chance of an incident increase after disaster.
Controlling rats if rat continue to be a problem after flood waters recede, contact your country Extension agent or professional pest control operator for advice. If you own be extremely careful with any rodenticide or trap. To minimize rat problems:
-Remove trash piles and piles of damage furniture or equipment. Store materials on platforms or shelves 12 to 18 inches above the ground.
-Remove food sources. Store food supplies in rat-proof bins or containers. Suspend garbage containers from trees or posts. Remove animal carcasses, as they may attract rats.
-If you are bitten by a rat, wash the wound with soap and water and see a doctor immediately. Rats may carry disease and at the least, rat bites can cause infection. If the rat is captured or killed, health authorities may wish to check it for rabies or other disease. When picking up a carcass, use the inside of a plastic bag to avoid touching it. Double-seal it in plastic and freeze until further notice.