September 6, 2005 - Mississippi Department of Health officials advise residents cleaning up after Hurricane Katrina to remove contaminated materials that can cause health risks. When flooding occurs, water must be removed as quickly as possible since it may contain material from overflowing sewage systems. Since disease-producing bacteria carried by floodwater can remain alive for long periods in and on fabrics, care in laundering clothing and bedding is essential.

First, brush off loose dirt, and if mud-stained, rinse in cool water until as much mud as possible is removed. Then wash as usual, using ample amounts of detergent.

The use of a disinfectant in the rinse water is especially recommended to destroy bacteria. For white fabrics, household bleach is recommended. Manufacturer's directions should be followed carefully.

While working in and around your home:

• Wear rubber boots, rubber gloves, and goggles during clean-up of affected areas.
• Keep children and pets out of the affected area until clean-up has been completed.
• Remove and throw away flooded items that cannot be washed and disinfected (such as mattresses, carpeting, carpet padding, rugs, upholstered furniture, cosmetics, stuffed animals, baby toys, pillows, foam-rubber items, books, wall coverings and most paper products).
• Remove and throw away drywall and insulation that has been contaminated with sewage or flood waters.
• Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces (such as flooring, concrete, molding, wood and metal furniture, countertops, appliances, sinks and plumbing fixtures) with hot water and laundry or dish detergent.
• Help the drying process by using fans, air conditioning units, and dehumidifiers if possible.
• After completing the cleanup, wash your hands with soap and disinfected water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Wash all clothes worn during the cleanup in hot water and detergent. These clothes should be washed separately from uncontaminated clothes and linens.
• Wash clothes contaminated by the flood or sewage in hot water and detergent.

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