COEPRIS halts street food sales at sewage-flooded spots in La Paz after the rains

The State Commission for Protection against Sanitary Risks (COEPRIS) temporarily suspended food sales at spots in the municipality of La Paz where sewage is running off, as a preventive measure after the weekend rains. The agency wants to keep food from coming into contact with contaminated water.

The decision follows the rainfall that left standing water and wastewater spills in several parts of the city. Under those conditions, the main risk is acute diarrheal infection, especially in children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.

"The goal is to protect public health and prevent outbreaks from eating food exposed to contaminated water," said José Manuel Junco Navarro, head of COEPRIS, who asked vendors to reinforce hygiene when preparing and serving food.

The authority recommends that vendors carry out basic sanitation of their work areas once the water recedes, avoid setting up over runoff zones, and step up handwashing and utensil cleaning. Residents can report stands still operating in sewage-affected areas through the portal www.coeprisbcs.gob.mx.

For those who buy on the street, it is best to avoid food prepared at spots surrounded by puddles or mud, choose hot, freshly made dishes, and drink bottled or boiled water. These precautions matter most in the rainy season, when wastewater runoff raises the presence of bacteria.

Anyone with symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting or fever after eating out should stay hydrated with oral rehydration salts and visit the nearest health center. The suspension will remain in place while the sanitary risk on public streets persists.