This week’s flooding in parts of the country that has affected nearly 140,000 people could result in the spread of respiratory illnesses, infectious diseases including water borne diseases and dermatological issues, Health officials have warned.The warning came as flood waters were receding in the districts of Galle, Colombo and Gampaha.The Health Ministry’s National Coordinator of Disaster Preparedness & Response Division Dr Hemantha Herath said one of the best ways to protect oneself from diseases was to try and stay out of the water.Health officials have also asked people to refrain from drinking water from wells that could be contaminated by floodwaters.Health authorities have also warned of a rise in dengue cases and have identified Colombo, Gampaha and some parts of Galle district as areas prone to dengue.