The role of the veterinarian in hurricanes and other natural disasters.
Hurricanes create a multiplicity of complicated problems and hazards ranging from outbreaks of infectious disease to animal control problems precipitated by destruction of property. A multidisciplinary response is required to solve such problems. The pool of knowledge derived from various professionals interacting with multiple levels of government agencies (federal, state, and local) will provide the expertise needed. Because the veterinarian is trained to deal with disease involving populations of animals (e.g., herds or flocks) as well as individuals, and because of his/her intensive clinical training, the veterinarian is uniquely qualified to deal with the disaster situation. The veterinarian possesses extensive knowledge in disease and disease processes and has the capability of disease and injury management in affected populations, which qualifies him/her for an essential role, with unlimited potential as a member of any disaster relief team. There is considerable potential for veterinarians to play a role in responding to natural disasters. The areas of disease control, animal care, animal control, protection of the food supply, disinfection/sterilization, and planning are all areas where veterinarians can take an active part. Inclusion of the veterinarian in the process of planning for and responding to natural disasters will yield significant public health benefits.
Moore
R M
RM
United States Public Health Service, Center for Devices and Radiological Health, Food and Drug Administration, Rockville, Maryland 20852.
Davis
Y M
YM
Kaczmarek
R G
RG
D000827:Animal Welfare; D000818:Animals; D003140:Communicable Disease Control; D004189:Disaster Planning; D004190:Disasters; D004199:Disease Vectors; D014481:United States; D014730:Veterinary Medicine