(MT. VERNON, IL) — Jefferson County Health Department is urging residents to be aware of the possible need to disinfect their water supply after a flood.  According to their release, JCHD informs that households which utilize private wells should have their water tested following the latest floods in the area.  Flood waters may contaminate wells with fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and other farm chemicals. Flood waters may also contaminate wells with sewage from nearby private sewage systems as well as from animal wastes. If your well does not have a disinfecting system on it, you may treat the water by adding bleach to the well. The JCHD also remind you that if you are cleaning up flooding and storm damage and are injured, seek medical attention as you may need to get a tetanus shot.   Other tips the JCHD suggests are to not allow children to play in flood waters, wash your hands with soap and water that has been boiled or disinfected before preparing or eating foods after participating in cleanup activities, and if a wound develops redness, swelling, or drainage, seek immediate medical attention.  If you have any questions, contact the Jefferson County Health Department at 618-244-7134.