Hurricanes can lead to outbreaks of diseases such as cholera, Zika, West Nile virus, and Vibrio vulnificus (flesh-eating bacteria) due to flooding and infrastructure damage.

Floodwaters often contain sewage and contaminants, facilitating the spread of waterborne diseases like cholera.

Standing water from floods creates breeding grounds for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of Zika and West Nile virus transmission.

Exposure to contaminated water can lead to infections by Vibrio vulnificus, a bacterium that can cause severe illness or death.

Public health officials emphasize the importance of avoiding contact with floodwaters, using insect repellent, and ensuring access to clean water to mitigate these risks.