S2E23 Storm Surge: Microbes in the Wake of a Hurricane

In this episode of Infectious Dose, Heather explores the infectious disease risks that follow hurricanes, tropical storms, and flooding events. Learn how severe weather changes exposure pathways for pathogens already present in our environment and why recovery can create unique health challenges long after the rain stops. Topics include: • Floodwater and wound infections • Vibrio vulnificus and coastal flooding • Leptospirosis and rodent exposure • Mold and respiratory risks during cleanup • Mosquito blooms after heavy rainfall • Food and water safety after power outages • Building an infectious disease-informed hurricane preparedness kit Plus: A free downloadable Infectious Disease Hurricane Preparedness Guide with checklists, safety tips, emergency reference formulas, and a personal medical information worksheet. Download in companion blog post at Infectious Dose. The storm isn't always the biggest health risk. Sometimes it's the week after. Subscribe to the free Infectious Dose newsletter, Field Notes, here.