When people are living in temporary shelters, and particularly where there are concentrations of displaced persons, health education is very important. A few of the subjects on which informational and educational activities are developed are:

· the utilization of water, cleanliness and protection of drinking-water containers, making water fit to drink (boiling, filtration), disposal of waste water,

· the utilization and cleaning of latrines,

· waste disposal, education on keeping public areas clean by using supervised tips,

· cleanliness of the temporary dwellings,

· control of lice and other parasites,

· control of flies, insect disease vectors and rodents: keeping everywhere clean, protection of food, minor cleaning work.

Figure

The local health workers should obtain the assistance of health volunteers, who must be trained in a few days (unless they have already had training) and given guidance in their work. It is important that people do not merely participate but are committed to their work. As far as possible, members of the community should be given the tasks of organization, information and assistance. The objectives and methods used must be discussed, shared and felt by the population.