The period during and after disasters signifies a time of great risk in the transmission of infectious diseases. Conditions are often unsanitary and conducive to disease outbreak. The associated risks to health are due to lack of safe drinking water, poor sanitation and hygiene practices. Early identification of appropriate, technically sound and sustainable water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) interventions is therefore critical, for a fast and effective response to disasters. Interventions that improve water supply; sanitation and hygiene practice will greatly reduce disease transmission, alleviate the suffering and save lives.
Many emergency relief workers are able to assess and prioritize WASH needs for a population in distress. However, identification and implementation of practical and sustainable interventions to address these needs remains a challenge. This is because few professionals have the capacity and experience to translate WASH needs of affected communities into appropriate solutions.