How to Get Started

This self-study course will help health personnel meet the needs of people experiencing a sudden natural disaster or other disaster resulting in mass casualties. Designed primarily for health care professionals, paraprofessionals, and those in training, this course may also be of value to governmental personnel and representatives of private voluntary agencies.

The course deals with disasters caused by destructive storms, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and sea surges. Specifically, it covers the effects of such disasters on epidemics of communicable disease.

The course is based on the scientific publication, Epidemiologic Surveillance after Natural Disaster, published by the Pan American Health Organization.

The procedure of self-study is:

Complete and score the Pretest. Do not be disappointed if you have a low score. If you have a high score, you probably do not need this course.

Read the Outline of Course Content to get a general idea of what is covered in the course.

Read the Learning Objectives to get a general idea of what you are expected to learn from the course.

Turn to Lesson 1: Introduction

· Review the Study Guide section for a brief description of the lesson and any special suggestions on how to study.

· Again read the Learning Objectives.

· Carry out the Learning Activities listed.

· Complete the Self-Assessment Test at the end of the lesson and score it using the answer key provided. If you have not answered most of the questions correctly, restudy the lesson.

If you score well on the Self-Assessment Test, proceed to Lesson 2.

Continue to study each lesson and complete the Self-Assessment Test until you have finished the course of study.

When you have completed all the Self-Assessment Tests to your satisfaction, you should request the Final Exam Package. This will include the Final Examination and a Disaster Development Problem.