Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #113343

Marie A. Bailey, MA, MSW and Youjie Huang, MD, MPH, DrPH. Bureau of Epidemiology, Florida Department of Health, 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin #A-12, Tallahassee, FL 32399-1720, (850) 245-4444 x2434, marie_bailey@doh.state.fl.us

Background: Florida experienced four major hurricane events from August to October 2004. In response to these natural disasters, the Florida Department of Health Bureau of Epidemiology engaged the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey to capture data specific to these hurricane events. The BRFSS was seen as a great vehicle for self-reported data that could then be triangulated with other data sources and enhance the State's preparedness for future disasters. Methods: In early October, the Bureau of Epidemiology began collaborating with its partners in other bureaus and agencies for question development. Within two weeks, thirty questions were developed that addressed the following issues: hurricane preparedness; generator use; damage assessment; physical injuries and medical care; loss of employment; and mental health status. Data were collected in November and December 2004. Results: A total of 1,690 interviews were completed and preliminary weighted data were made available by the CDC in January 2005. Preliminary results show that of all Floridians, 33.2% had to evacuate their home due to at least one hurricane. Television (70.6%) and radio (19.7%) were the primary sources of information for hurricane-related public health advisories, and 4.4% of Floridians suffered a physical injury and 5.5% had a health condition that was made worse as a result of the hurricanes. Conclusions: The BRFSS can be a useful and flexible tool for post-disaster assessment. Collaborations between state agencies can enhance the use of BRFSS for these types of assessments, and enhance the usefulness of the data across the state.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe the logistical challenges to developing post-disaster survey questions.
• Identify appropriate partners for collaboration on developing post-disaster data collection.
• List at five major post-disaster public health concerns.

Keywords: Disasters, Assessments

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.