Authors
Vasudevan S, Professor, Department of Urology, Government Medical College, Trivandrum; Editor, IMA, Kerala Medical Journal.
Abstract
Background: Kerala experienced unprecedented massive flooding in August 2018, echoing historical events. Floods are among the most common natural disasters globally, causing significant morbidity and mortality, with increasing incidence due to urbanization and global warming. This editorial discusses the health consequences of such events.
Objective: To analyze the immediate and long-term health impacts of massive floods, categorizing their consequences and discussing factors influencing their severity and management strategies.
Main Points: Floods arise from increased precipitation, rising water levels, dam releases, or drainage failure, with impacts shaped by flood type, geography, demography, infrastructure, and disaster management. Health consequences are categorized as direct (drowning, injuries, hypothermia) and indirect (infectious diseases, malnutrition, mental health issues). Immediate effects include physical trauma and service disruption. Secondary effects involve contamination (water, chemical), carbon monoxide poisoning, communicable diseases (exacerbated by poor sanitation, crowded conditions, and damaged health facilities), and respiratory illnesses. Long-term consequences include disability and pervasive mental health problems.
Discussion: Effective disaster management, including mitigation, preparation, provision of clean resources, and proper waste disposal, reduces immediate mortalities and disease outbreaks. Addressing long-term mental health challenges requires coordinated responses. The article emphasizes the crucial role of social cohesion and spontaneous community support, as observed in Kerala, and the need for resilient health infrastructure.