NORTH CAROLINA (WFMY)-- Flood water still needs to recede in many parts of the state. The standing water is dangerous to drive through it and it can also be dangerous to your skin.
Experts say the water typically has lot's of bacteria that can make you sick.
"When you have a flood like that you tend to have sewage overflows or septic systems that malfunction because of the flooding. You could also have viruses like hepatitis A," said Joe Johnson with the Guilford County Health Department.
Experts say if there's no way to avoid coming in contact with floodwaters, make sure you don't inhale it and cover any open wounds. They recommend cleaning any cuts with antibacterial ointment and visit your doctor to get any shots you're not up to date on.
Another thing to watch out for are mosquitoes. "Mosquitoes breed in flooded areas and in still waters and so when you've got a lot of flood water sitting around after a storm like that, you tend to have a population explosion of mosquitoes," said Johnson.
If you've been exposed to floodwaters and start having stomach problems, that could be a sign of a bacterial infection like E. Coli.
The important takeaway here is pay attention to how you're feeling and if possible, stay out of flood waters.
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