Infections with hepatitis, though, may not become evident for much longer. "The effect of these viruses wouldn't show up for weeks or months later," says Starke.

Insects, animals pose threat
The floodwaters and debris can also fuel populations of insects that can spread disease. Flies can transmit bacteria like salmonella from their feet to people's faces or food, notes Herip.

Story continues below ↓

advertisement | your ad here

And within "a matter of days or a week" increased numbers of mosquitoes could prompt greater spread of West Nile virus, says Dr. Lyle Vogel, a veterinarian and director of the scientific activities division of the American Veterinary Medical Association in Schaumburg, Ill.

Pools of waters also could be contaminated with bacteria from animal urine that can cause a condition known as leptospirosis, he says, which can lead to flu-like symptoms, jaundice and in severe cases, meningitis.

Another threat, though probably not a big one, is rabies, which could be transmitted through bites from animals such as skunks, says Vogel.

Bites from poisonous snakes, and of course, alligator attacks are also a concern.

As people return to their homes or what's left of them, they could run the risk of electrocution, and injuries from rusty nails and other hazards as they attempt repairs, says Herip. Damp walls could encourage the growth of mold that spurs allergies and other breathing troubles.

Mental toll
But one of the greatest effects of Katrina for many people will be the lasting emotional toll, experts say.

Besides the initial shock of the disaster, people will suffer from lack of sleep and they'll be worried about their homes, jobs and school and struggling to put their lives back together, says Herip.

"Each of these stress points are added onto each other," he says, "and the psychological impact is going to be huge."

Starke says the emotional impact may not hit the hardest for weeks or longer.

"It's not unusual for post-traumatic stress disorder to not kick in for a few weeks to even a few months," he says.

< Prev | 1 | 2