STUDY OF MORBIDITIES IN A FLOOD RELIEF CAMP: OBSERVATIONS FROM KERALA 2018
V. T. Krishnadas Menon*, Jenyz M., Kerline P. J., Vidhu J. and C. R. Saju
ABSTRACT
Background: During the year 2018, the southernmost state of Kerala in India experienced devastating stating floods due to unprecedented rains. Indiscriminate damage to housing, communication and transport networks, and health facilities ensued affecting the lives of thousands of people. Objective: To assess the morbidity profile of patients attending the medical camps conducted at Thrissur during the post flood period. Methodology: In our study, the investigators with their health team conducted camps in Thrissur one of the worst affected districts during the floods between August 2018. Data were collected regarding age, gender, and presenting health problems. Total number of patients seen in camps was 5. Results: It was observed that among people who came to the camp, common health problems were as follows – 21.72% had headache 19.84% had itching on legs with acute gastroenteritis, 17.91% had leg pain and 9.26% had respiratory tract infection with skin problems. Conclusion: Due to provision of safe drinking water and epidemic prevention measures, epidemic outbreaks have been averted. However, strengthening of existing health care systems is required to handle the burden of acute gastrointestinal and respiratory infections during disasters such as floods.
Keywords: Chennai flood, disaster, health impact.
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