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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Jennifer Beal and Shafiq Ahmed. Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, George Washington University School of Public Health and Health Services, 2300 I Street, NW, Washington, DC 20037, 202-884-3578, shafmed@gwu.edu

One of the worst consequences of the 2004 tsunami in Aceh, Indonesia, was the displacement of thousands into temporary shelters. Compromised living situations, malnutrition and lack of appropriate water and sanitation systems can create favorable conditions for the spread of infectious diseases. Thus, a timely post-disaster response by public health officials is critical to prevent epidemics. Here we reviewed guidelines for establishing rudimentary public health measures during a complex emergency. The term “complex emergency” refers to the situation in which large populations of refugees are created in conflicted areas, and it is rarely used in reference to the aftermath of natural disasters. However, the public health guidelines for responding to said situations are applicable in natural disaster response when an internally displaced population (IDP) is created, as was the case in Aceh. The provision of adequate food and water to the IDP is essential for the prevention of cholera and other water-borne diseases. Maintaining a clean water supply can be achieved by chlorination and boiling of water, hand-washing campaigns and appropriate disposal of sewage. Sufficient food rations reduce the likelihood of malnutrition and adequate housing prevents overcrowding. Finally, the establishment of an early warning network is critical to identifying and controlling outbreaks when existing surveillance systems have been destroyed. Adherence to the principles of these guidelines is evidenced by the rarity of post-tsunami cholera outbreaks in Aceh, Indonesia, where similar measures were taken. These basic guidelines should be applied whenever an IDP is created by a natural disaster.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant in this session will be able to

• List the basic requirements of an internally displaced population that must be met to ensure adequate public health.
• Identify the necessary measures to meet quality and quantity standards for food and water.
• Describe the implementation of an early warning network to prevent and contain cholera outbreaks.

Keywords: Infectious Diseases, Disasters

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered