Averting a Cholera Epidemic in the Wake of Dual Natural Disasters
Averting a Cholera Epidemic in the Wake of Dual Natural Disasters
Publication Year:
2019
Authors:
Putnam, Wendy
Language:
English
Affiliated Orgs.:
USAID, UNICEF, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Resource Type:
Blog Post
Summary:
Describes USAID’s response to the 2017 cholera outbreak in Sierra Leone, which was exacerbated by flooding and mudslides caused by heavy rains.
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Resource Information
Resource Type
Blog Post
Publication Year
2019
Author
Putnam, Wendy
Language
English
Organizational Affiliation
USAID, UNICEF, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Relevant Country
Mozambique
Specific Solutions
Certeza
Business Connect Takeaways
In the aftermath of natural disasters, such as hurricanes or earthquakes, there is often an increased risk of cholera outbreaks due to damage to water and sanitation infrastructure and the displacement of populations.
Rapid response and coordination among local and international organizations is critical to preventing and controlling cholera outbreaks in these situations. This includes providing safe drinking water, promoting hygiene and sanitation, and conducting surveillance and early detection of cases.
Community engagement and participation is also important in preventing cholera outbreaks and ensuring a sustainable response. This includes involving local communities in the design and implementation of water and sanitation programs, promoting behavior change around hygiene and sanitation practices, and building local capacity for response and recovery.