South Asia earthquake and tsunamis: Thailand

The south-western coast of Thailand was particularly hit by the force of the tsunami. Almost immediately, nearly 50,000 rescue workers were mobilized to look for survivors. 200 disease surveillance specialists have been deployed throughout the affected areas, to strengthen disease surveillance in urgent efforts to rapidly identify potential outbreaks. While no disease outbreaks have been reported, an increase in isolated cases of diarrhoeal diseases have been confirmed, indicating that sanitary conditions and access to safe drinking water remains critical in displacement camps.

Health priorities

• Increase access to adequate supplies of safe drinking water for displaced populations
• Strengthen sanitary and hygiene conditions in relief camps, to minimize the risk of disease outbreaks (particularly water-borne and respiratory diseases)
• Sensitize disease surveillance to rapidly detect potential outbreaks enabling an effective subsequent response

Last update 26 January 2006