PASIR MAS, Kelantan – Health volunteers in Malaysia are preparing for a possible surge in waterborne diseases following catastrophic floods that displaced tens of thousands and raised concerns of further heavy rains.
Floodwaters have started to recede in Kelantan, the worst-hit state on the north-eastern coast, but over 40,000 evacuees remain in temporary shelters as of Dec 4, according to government data. The threat of a second wave of flooding this week has heightened worries among residents and officials.
Nearly 5,000 cases of infectious diseases, including stomach flu, respiratory infections, and skin ailments, have been reported at Kelantan relief centers, state health authorities said. Viral videos of children playing in contaminated floodwaters have sparked fears of a broader outbreak.
The Malaysian Medical Relief Society (Mercy Malaysia) has stockpiled hygiene kits to respond to any potential rise in disease cases. “We’re prepared to distribute these kits if there’s a surge of people returning to shelters,” said Shah Fiesal Hussain, Mercy Malaysia’s head of global operations. Volunteers are also organizing activities for children in shelters to mitigate health risks.
The Meteorological Department has forecast a monsoon surge from Dec 8 to Dec 14, with the possibility of continuous rain in parts of peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak. Relief efforts remain on high alert as Malaysia works to safeguard health and recovery in flood-stricken areas.