Skip Navigation
Skip to contents

JPMPH : Journal of Preventive Medicine and Public Health

OPEN ACCESS
SEARCH
Search

Author index

Page Path
HOME > Browse Articles > Author index
Search
Fatema Hashem Rupa 1 Article
Addressing Public Health Risks: Strategies to Combat Infectious Diseases After the August 2024 Floods in Bangladesh
Fatema Hashem Rupa, Mosharop Hossian
J Prev Med Public Health. 2024;57(6):600-603.   Published online November 3, 2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3961/jpmph.24.495
  • 1,082 View
  • 103 Download
AbstractAbstract AbstractSummary PDF
The August 2024 floods in Bangladesh have precipitated a major public health crisis, significantly elevating the risk of waterborne and vector-borne diseases and exacerbating existing health vulnerabilities. This disaster has impacted over 5 million people, causing widespread environmental disruption, population displacement, and strained healthcare resources. The flooding of latrines, sewage systems, and agricultural land has led to the contamination of drinking water sources, increasing the risk of cholera, enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli diarrhoea, shigellosis, and hepatitis. Additionally, stagnant floodwaters have created breeding grounds for mosquitoes, thereby increasing the threat of malaria and dengue fever. The disruption of healthcare services has further compounded the crisis, delaying emergency responses and impeding access to care. The psychological impact on affected communities is profound, with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder emerging as significant concerns. This perspective provides an analysis of these public health threats, supported by data on the impact of floods and a discussion of the underlying risk factors. This underscores the need for immediate and long-term public health interventions, including restoring clean water access, enhancing disease surveillance, repairing healthcare infrastructure, and addressing mental health needs. The response to this disaster must be rapid and comprehensive, with lessons learned to inform preparedness efforts to better manage similar events in the future.
Summary
Key Message
The August 2024 floods in Bangladesh have caused a severe public health crisis, elevating risks of waterborne and vector-borne diseases like cholera, shigellosis, malaria, and dengue. Over 5 million people have been affected, with contaminated water sources, disrupted healthcare services, and mental health issues worsening the impact. This article highlights the urgent need for clean water restoration, disease surveillance, healthcare system repairs, and mental health support, emphasizing the importance of immediate and long-term interventions to manage the crisis and strengthen disaster preparedness for the future.

JPMPH : Journal of Preventive Medicine and Public Health
TOP