Disaster has many forms. Epidemics and outbreaks of disease, famine, natural catastrophes, chemical accidents and population displacements are just some of the disasters that may affect any or all of us. Disasters cause death and destruction, yet the amount of damage they do to human life and health can be reduced considerably if we are prepared and we respond rapidly when a disaster happens. Making a rapid assessment of health status and health needs is an essential first step in responding to disaster. Taking stock of the situation without delay enables priorities to be set and aid organized efficiently, so that time and resources are not wasted. When a disaster occurs there is unlikely to be a team of experts on hand to give advice so the health assessment will have to be carried out by local health staff. The protocols in this book can be used to train all kinds of health workers who may be involved in emergency response so that, when disaster strikes, they are able to keep the toll of death and disease to a minimum.

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Price in developing countries: Sw. fr. 21.70
ISBN 924 154515 1