Meeting nutritional requirements of the community in disaster: A guide to policy-makers
Aim: The aim of this study is to assess the importance of nutrition in a disaster and to explore the different interventions by which nutrition of people can be maintained. Materials and Methods: An extensive search of all materials related to the topic was made using library sources including PubMed, Medline and World Health Organization. Keywords used in the search include disaster, nutrition, micronutrients, and public health. Results: The nutritional status of an individual is one of the key determinants for the growth, development and survival of an individual. In some of the special circumstances (viz., natural/man-made disaster), nutrition assumes significant importance as the required resources may be different and limited. In absence of timely implementation of the preventive measures, significant rise in the incidence of malnutrition, all forms of vitamin and micronutrient deficiency, low birth weight, infectious disease, adoption of anti-nutritional measures, and mortality has been observed. Conclusion: The nutrition during a disaster situation is not merely providing a feed, but it involves anticipating, preparing and training for disaster beforehand; assessing the disaster situation in terms of impact, demography and resources; making an immaculate plan; implementing the plan and learn from the mistakes.