By Serena Josephine M
It is 15 days since Cyclone Gaja made landfall in southern wreaking havoc in six districts of the State. At least 3,000 public health personnel still remain on the ground, organising medical camps, chlorinating water sources, looking out for mosquito breeding sources and, more importantly, maintaining sanitation in affected areas.
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Disasters create a significant impact on the lives and health of people. Hence, disease surveillance becomes important. The World Health Organisation (WHO) says that every year, claim around 90,000 lives and affect close to 160 million people worldwide. In their aftermath, there have been instances of disease outbreaks.
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For public health officials, providing access to safe drinking water, food and sanitation are the formula; any lacuna could increase the risk of health hazards.
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Experts say sanitation should not take a back seat. For example, a community or marriage hall turns into a home for several of those who have been affected for at least 15 days till restoration works are complete. Dr. Kolandaswamy [Director of Public and Preventive Government of Tamil Nadu] says, “Sanitation at these temporary shelters is one of the priority areas. Not to forget the accommodation of those involved in relief work too.”
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It is also important to take a step ahead and provide psychological support to those who are affected. Says Dr. Kuganantham [former city health officer, Chennai Corporation]: “I remember a few children who had lost their parents during the tsunami staring at us blankly. The depression and psychosis is evident in the aftermath of a disaster. People require counselling and re-assurance as they would have lost their relatives, their assets and livelihood.”
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