Internationally, the greatest burden of disease is due to water and sanitation. This problem is especially true among displaced populations. Basic needs such as the provision of potable drinking water and proper waste disposal for these populations must first be met before addressing other health problems. Failure to do this can lead to disatrous consequences. In July of 1994, 800,000 refugees fled the genocide in Rwanda and settled in the country of Zaire. Shortly after settling in Zaire, an outbreak of cholera started and within a month there were over 40,000 deaths. The outbreak was a direct result of the lack of water and sanitation services available to the refugees. The resources of the host country were totally overwhelmed. The outbreak will be discussed as well as the conditions leading to the outbreak and the environmental health response to it. The importance of basic sanitation for displaced populations will be reviewed. Public health professionals need to maintain an understanding of the importance of basic sanitation both domestically and internationally as we continue to address other environmentally related challenges.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session participants will: 1. Learn the importance of water and sanitation among displaced populations. 2. Understand that the greates burden of disease is due to water and sanitation. 3. Importance of understanding basic public health and hygiene both domestically and internationally.
Keywords: Environmental Health, International Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.