Danger from Water-Borne Diseases

Members should be aware that there is a small risk of contracting Weill’s Disease (Leptospirosis) and other disorders because of micro-organisms in the river.  The risk is higher in the summer months when the river flow is reduced.

Recommended precautions are:

• Minimise contact with the water
• Cuts and abrasions should be covered with waterproof dressings
• Shower after contact with water
• Wash hands thoroughly before eating and drinking

If ‘flu like symptoms develop shortly after contact with the water (1-3 weeks) then your doctor should be contacted and advised of the circumstances of exposure.

Hypothermia

The following are the most usual symptoms and signs, but not all may be present.
(a) Unexpected and unreasonable behaviour possibly accompanied by complaints of coldness and tiredness.
(b) Physical and mental lethargy with failure to understand a question or orders.
(c) Slurring of speech.
(d) Violent outburst of unexpected energy and violent language, becoming uncooperative.
(e) Failure of, or abnormality in, vision.
(f) Twitching.
(g) Lack of control of limbs, unsteadiness and complaining of numbness and cramp.
(h) General shock with pallor and blueness of lips and nails.
(i) Slow weak pulse, wheezing and coughing.

Try to reduce the chances of hypothermia by dressing to beat the cold.  Wear layers of clothing and the outer layer should be wind and waterproof.  A major source of heat loss is the head, wearing some sort of heat can help to reduce this loss.

When hypothermia is suspected the aim must be to prevent the casualty losing more body heat and to rewarm the casualty.