Houses in Kwakwani partially submerged by flood waters. Agriculture Ministry photo)

As the flood waters in Lethem and other parts of Region Nine continue to recede, authorities are turning their attention to Kwakwani where flood waters have forced some residents to flee their homes.

With flood waters rising by as much as 12 inches in the Lamp Island and Water Fort area of Kwakwani, the Health Ministry said it has “obtained additional supplies to maintain readiness.”

Though “no outbreaks of diseases have been reported,” the ministry said medical outreaches continue to be conducted.

The privately-owned Capitol News television newscast showed pictures of several houses in Kwakwani almost covered by the flood waters.

The flooding there is caused by heavy rainfall in the mountains, not necessarily only in Kwakwani.

Agriculture Minister, Robert Persaud said relief efforts were continuing and steps were being taken to identify higher lands to bring relief to residents. There have been no immediate reports of deaths or injuries.

In Lethem, health authorities have begun aiding mopping-operations and going on a watch for disease outbreaks.

Health Minister, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy told demwaves.com that now that the water level is dropping, there is a greater potential for various types of diseases emerging.

Of the 48 patients seen at the Lethem Hospital, there were 12 cases of viral diarrhea and one admission for malaria. But Ramsammy said the numbers do not suggest there is a link to flooding.

“There is no evidence hat the flood has led to an increase in anything,” he said.

He said in a statement that there is “no major case” of vomiting and diarrhea and “no water borne diseases were detected.”

Health education and outreaches are being conducted at the six shelters.

The Health Ministry assured that all sub-districts “are adequately stocked with drugs and supplies”. Special attention is being paid to near- to- term pregnant mothers.

Encouraged by a significant drop in the water level, Environmental Officers were deployed to assist in the “clean up. Thirty gallons of jeyes fluid and six spray cans were sent in Thursday. Authorities also said that mosquito nets, disinfectants, and Chloro-sol will be distributed today to various villages.