Flood waters are potentially stew of bacteria, debris. Officials say stay out!

Floodwaters from Hurricane Matthew are still plaguing some hard-hit areas, and officials say residents should not wade or play in these pools of potentially dangerous debris and bacteria.

“With rivers such as the Pee Dee, Little Pee Dee, Lumber, Lynches and Waccamaw near or at flood stages, residents are strongly warned to stay out of floodwaters to reduce the risk of infections and illness,” said Myra Reece, director of the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control’s Environmental Affairs in a news release.

These waters flow past yards, septic tanks, and industrial sites, gathering waste and bacteria as they stream along, creating a “yucky stew” that also could have dangerous debris as a main ingredient, Robert Yanity, S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control said.

Hidden hazards, like wood with nails in it, sharp tree limbs, bacteria, and more often lurk in these waters and while some may be tempted to splash in them, they should definitely resist the urge, health officials said.

“Floodwaters can carry raw sewage and hazardous substances picked up as they flow across the land,” said Reece in the release.

If you must be in flood waters, officials recommend wearing strong, durable boots and gloves.

Dr. Dennis Rhoades, regional medical director of Doctors Care, said so far his offices have not seen an uptick in floodwater related illnesses. He cautioned those out in them should be careful and thoroughly wash with soap and warm water, especially any scrapes or cuts and keep antibiotic ointment on them.

He said common bacteria such as e. coli may live in floodwaters, and he also recommended anyone in them be up-to-date on their tetanus shot.

From the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Health and Human Services officials, anyone who has been in contact with flood waters should:

▪ Wash your hands frequently with soap, especially before drinking and eating.

▪ Do not allow children to play in flood water, or play with toys contaminated with flood water.

▪ Report cuts or open wounds, and report all symptoms of illness. Keep vaccinations current.

This story was originally published October 14, 2016 at 3:30 PM with the headline "Flood waters are potentially stew of bacteria, debris. Officials say stay out!."