Anywhere in the world can experience emergencies or disasters that have an impact on people’s lives, health, and the infrastructure put in place to assist them. The physical, biological, and social effects of a disaster, such as contaminated or destroyed water supplies, ruined sanitation and waste-management infrastructure, and destroyed shelter, can all pose health hazards in emergency situations. Due to the devastation caused by emergencies, there may also be a higher chance of radiation and chemical exposure.
WHO supports our efforts in helping nations prepare for and respond to the environmental health aspects of emergencies by utilising a network of agencies and experts. In collaboration with Member States, WHO aims to reduce threats to environmental health by:
Emergency response, which includes containing hazardous materials and assessing infrastructure damage; preparedness, which includes strengthening policies for disaster management and developing disaster response plans; and prevention measures, which include community awareness.
Early warning systems, and working to construct health facilities that are vulnerable to disasters.
Measures for recovery, like building a sturdy infrastructure for water and sanitation.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) promptly detects, confirms, and notifies about occurrences of (possible) worldwide public health concern, particularly those involving environmental health threats, in accordance with the worldwide Health Regulations.