Since Hurricane Harvey hit Texas on Friday, at least 35 people have died and many others have been injured and trapped in their flooded houses. But beyond the immediate dangers posed by the flooding, experts are worried about the broader threats to public health.

Health secretary Tom Price on Saturday declared a public health emergency in Texas.

We recognize the gravity of the situation in Texas, and the declaration of a public health emergency will provide additional flexibility and authority to help those who have been impacted by the storm, he said in a statement.