As heavy rains continue to raise water levels across the country, Nigerians have been urged to take urgent precautions against waterborne diseases by protecting drinking water sources and avoiding contact with floodwaters.
The Coordinator of the Climate Smart Sustainability Programme, Nigeria & USA, Dr. Abiola Bashorun, warned that flooding can cause contaminated water to mix with clean water supplies, exposing communities to harmful contaminants such as E. coli, algae, sewage, and other pollutants.
She said water quality control should be a top priority during the flood season, urging households and communities to treat drinking water using appropriate chemical and non-chemical purification methods before consumption.
Dr. Bashorun also cautioned parents and guardians against allowing children to play or swim in floodwaters, noting that contaminated water may contain dangerous bacteria capable of causing severe illness.
According to her, exposure to polluted floodwater significantly increases the risk of waterborne infections, particularly those caused by E. coli, and called on Nigerians to remain vigilant throughout the rainy season.
She urged the public to protect their families by treating drinking water, avoiding unnecessary contact with floodwaters, and observing proper hygiene, stressing that prevention remains better than cure.
