The floodwaters have gone done and clean up is under way. The Bureau of Epidemiology is receiving many phone calls regarding clean up and mold. Mold specific questions should be addressed to Environmental Health at (713) 640-4359.

To clean walls, hard-surfaced floors and other household surfaces use soap and water and disinfect with 1 cup of bleach to five gallons of water. Surfaces that came in contact with food water, such as counter tops; shelves and refrigerator must be thoroughly disinfected.

Areas where children play as well as their toys need to be cleaned with the same care.

Linens and clothing need to be washed in hot water or dry cleaned. Guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that items that cannot be washed or dry cleaned, such as mattresses and upholstered furniture, may be air dried in the sun and then sprayed thoroughly with a disinfectant. Anyone who had an injury, such as a cut or puncture wound which was exposed to flood waters and has not had a booster in the past five years should receive a tetanus booster vaccination. Call the Immunizations Bureau for locations of clinics and times of operation at 713-794-9267.

The mosquito population has multiplied due to standing water. We can all do our part by getting rid of mosquito breeding grounds.

• Empty, remove, cover or turn upside down any container that holds water, such as saucers for flowerpots and buckets.

• Change water and scrub birdbaths and vases holding flowers or cuttings at least twice each week.

• Repair leaky pipes, outside faucets.

• Empty plastic wading pools weekly and store inside when not in use.

• Frequently move drain hoses of window or central air conditioning units so that water does not stand in one location for a long time.

• Get rid of old tires, cans, bottles, etc.

• Keep gutters free of debris and standing water.

Other actions to eliminate mosquito bites include:

• Check screens on all windows and doors and patch if necessary.

• Wear protective clothing, especially long sleeves and slacks if you have to be outside at dusk, night and dawn, when the Culex mosquito is most active.

• Use an insect repellant containing Deet and apply as directed. Spray form is best since the product in concentration can be toxic, especially to children.

Call the Bureau of Epidemiology for other questions or concerns at 713-794-9181.