Jember flood victims suffer from diarrhea, rashes

The Jakarta Post, Jember | Mon, 02/02/2009 8:04 PM  

Dozens of flood victims in two villages in Jember regency are suffering from diarrhea and rashes following floods that have ravaged the area over the past three days. 

According to kompas.com, the diseases are affecting residents of Paseban and Kraton villages. 

Kraton village head Edi Winoto said Sunday that at least three people in the village had contracted diarrhea, while many others were experiencing rashes. 

“We have prepared rescue teams responsible to give medical aid and treatments for those suffering from the diseases,” he said, adding that the teams also had enough medical stock to anticipate possible high numbers of flood victims. 

As of Sunday morning, he added, floodwaters had begun to recede, thus allowing some residents to return and clean up their homes. 

“But we are still on alert, because floods could return immediately if heavy rains pour down our villages,” he said. (ewd)