The HSE has issued advice on how people can protect their health during the current floods.
Guidelines issued today advise people to avoid floodwater where possible and recommend those who do come into contact with dirty water to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and clean, warm water.
People should wash their hands frequently but especially after going to the toilet and before eating or preparing food, says the HSE. If clean warm water is not available then cold water or hand sanitisers can be used.
When cleaning up floodwater, people are advised to wear waterproof gloves and rubber boots, and cover any wounds or cuts with a waterproof plaster. Surfaces - particularly those used for preparing food - should be cleaned with disinfectant, and any food that may have been touched by floodwater should be discarded.
Properties should be kept ventilated with surfaces allowed to dry completely to prevent mould. Bedding and soft furnishings need to be washed at a temperature of at least 60 degrees Celsius or professionally cleaned.
Emergency water is being supplied in areas where water services are disrupted and people are being asked to bring their own containers for collection. This water can be used for drinking, brushing teeth, bathing, washing food, cooking and making ice, although it should be boiled before use and allowed to cool. If the water is for baby formula, it should be brought to a rolling boil and left covered to cool for no more than half an hour.
Baby wipes can also be used for hand cleansing and washing. However the HSE warns that tap water or tanker water should never be used for cleaning or storing contact lenses since this could cause a rare but serious eye infection.
In order to conserve water, the HSE says it is not necessary to flush the toilet after urination. If there is no water for flushing toilets, other recycled water may be used, such as water left over after washing or rainwater.
People who have a private water supply such as a well are advised to check it has not been affected by flood water. Changes in colour, taste or smell are signs of contamination and if you suspect the supply has been affected by the flood then assume the water is unsafe to drink.
The HSE advises those who are concerned about their health or that of a family member to contact their family doctor.