Prevention and control of Infectious diseases after disasters caused by natural hazards
Citation: Kouadio IK, Aljunid S, Kamigaki T, et al. Infectious diseases following natural disasters: prevention and control measures. Expert Review of Anti-Infective Therapy. 2012;10(1):95-104.
Language: Abstract and full text available in EN.
Free to view: Yes.
Funding sources: Nothing noted.
What is this? In this review, the authors searched for literature about infectious diseases after disasters caused by natural hazards. They searched in April 2011 for descriptions of infectious outbreaks that occurred from 2000 onwards. The authors found 21 publications.
What was found: Disasters caused by natural hazards, coupled with population displacement, are risk factors for reduced hygiene and sanitation, overcrowding, environmental changes, and population vulnerability to pathogens. These factors increase the risk of infectious diseases and outbreaks. Diarrhoeal diseases were the most commonly reported infectious diseases in post-disaster settings. National guidelines for disease management, treatment, and supportive care should be followed. Prevention and control measures included site planning, solid waste management, vaccination, vector control, health education, and isolation of the sick.
Implications: The authors of the review stated that a rapid diseases risk assessment should be conducted by public health professionals within the first week of the disaster to identify health impacts and needs. Appropriate prevention and clinical management should be implemented immediately to control infectious disease outbreaks. Every country should have emergency and preparedness plans, as well as surveillance systems and basic facilities to monitor outbreaks.
Other considerations: The authors of the review discussed some of their findings in the context of culture and education.
This summary was prepared by Briann Mensour, checked by Jawaria Karim, and finalized by William Summerskill.