LOCAL
Health risks lurk in Muncie floodwaters
Jane Imbody
Muncie Star Press
Aug. 21, 2026, 10:03 a.m. ET
Floodwaters that swept through Muncie and surrounding communities may leave behind more than property damage. Indiana University Health is warning residents that exposure to contaminated floodwater during cleanup and recovery can increase the risk of illness, infection and injury
Those health risks include wound infections, gastrointestinal illnesses and tetanus exposure, according to a community announcement. Dr. Ritika Zijoo, infectious disease specialist at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital, said floodwater can contain bacteria, viruses, chemicals and debris that pose health risks to people cleaning homes, removing damaged belongings or spending time in flooded areas
Exposure to contaminated water can contribute to illnesses including Salmonella, E. coli infection and hepatitis A. Injuries caused by nails, metal fragments, lumber and other debris also can increase the risk of tetanus
Health officials also cautioned about leptospirosis, a rare bacterial disease that can occur after exposure to floodwater contaminated by animal urine. Additional information about the disease is available from cdc.gov
Standing water left behind after flooding can create conditions that allow mosquitoes to breed
Who faces the greatest risk
Anyone with substantial contact with floodwater may become ill, but some groups face a higher risk of serious complications
“Anyone who has significant contact with floodwater can be at risk for illness, but young children, older adults, people with weakened immune systems or certain underlying medical conditions, and those with open wounds may be at greater risk for serious complications,” Zijoo said
Flood cleanup safety tips
The hospital encouraged residents involved in cleanup efforts to take steps to reduce exposure to contaminants and prevent illness
Safety recommendations include:
- Wash exposed skin with soap and clean water as soon as possible after contact with floodwater.
- Use alcohol-based wipes or hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Wash hands after contact with floodwater and before eating or preparing food.
- Make sure children wash their hands before meals.
- Keep open wounds clean and avoid exposing them to floodwater.
- Wash clothing contaminated by floodwater or sewage with hot water and detergent before wearing it again.
- Keep children out of floodwater and away from contaminated toys until they have been properly disinfected.
- Avoid bathing or swimming in water that may contain sewage or toxic chemicals.
- Wear protective gear such as rubber boots, gloves and goggles when entering floodwater.
When to seek medical care
Residents should contact a healthcare provider if they develop symptoms after floodwater exposure, including fever, worsening redness or swelling around a wound, drainage or pus, persistent vomiting or diarrhea, severe headaches, muscle aches, difficulty breathing, unusual weakness, confusion or yellowing of the skin or eyes
“Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have been exposed to floodwater,” Zijoo said. “That information can help determine what illnesses or infections should be considered.”
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