What Health Problems Can Floridians Expect In The Aftermath Of Hurricane Ian?

While Florida is no stranger to natural disasters, Hurricane Ian caused wide-scale destruction when it made landfall in the state this week. In addition to structural damage, however, the Category 4 hurricane has left many Floridians vulnerable and susceptible to a variety of health concerns in its wake. According to Healthline, one of the most pressing concerns about Hurricane Ian's impact on Floridians' health is water contamination.

Water contamination may occur as a result of flooding from wastewater treatment facilities and street or agricultural run-offs. This can make running water dangerous to drink, especially if it contains toxic chemicals. As a result, officials have instructed residents to boil their water before drinking it in some areas. As the flood water recedes, it can leave mold spores and toxins behind, which can cause breathing issues. Inhaling or ingesting these spores can lead to a whole range of symptoms. While some people may experience cold-like symptoms, others may have a more severe reaction and develop an autoimmune disease. That's why it's best to get rid of any mold in your home right away.

Experiencing a catastrophic hurricane can also impact one's mental health and well-being. That's because a hurricane is a traumatic event that can lead to psychological effects, like anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). "Common PTSD symptoms include hypervigilance, flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance of reminders of the trauma, and cognitive distortions about the world and the future," Dr. Stephanie Freitag, a licensed clinical psychologist, told Healthline.