Kings County ratifies local health emergency declaration

CORCORAN, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 14: Floodwaters cover a street in the reemerging Tulare Lake, in California’s Central Valley, on April 14, 2023 in Corcoran, California. Tulare Lake, once the largest body of freshwater west of the Mississippi River, disappeared when waters were diverted by agricultural interests to irrigate crops in the late 19th and early 20th century. Recent atmospheric river storm events caused significant flooding in the lakebed area with thousands of acres of farmland flooded. The impending Sierra Nevada mountains snowmelt, with snowpack levels around historic highs, could expand the lake size to 200 square miles, threatening farming communities and billions in losses. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

by: Victoria Meza

Posted: Jun 9, 2023 / 05:08 PM PDT

Updated: Jun 9, 2023 / 05:08 PM PDT

HANDFORD, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – Kings County Board of Supervisors ratified the local health emergency declaration issued in May, following the floodwater contamination and vector-borne illness.

According to officials, a County Health Officer issued the local health emergency on May 31 due to the recent floodings in Kings County, which meant a significant threat to public health due to the presence of contaminated floodwater, the risk of infectious diseases, and the potential for vector-borne illnesses.

“Kings County residents are encouraged to exercise caution around floodwater and standing water, especially as we anticipate intensified flooding as the snowpack melts in the coming months,” said Rose Mary Rahn, Kings County Director of Public Health. “Individuals who have come into contact with contaminated floodwater and are experiencing symptoms of illness are urged to consult with their primary care physician.”

Officials said that the threats to public health also included the danger of infectious or communicable diseases and/or non-communicable biological agents due to standing or stagnant water, mold, exposure to agricultural components, and other potential threats.