Frequently asked questions in case of emergencies

The information below gives responses to questions that are likely to be frequently asked during an emergency. They are divided into four categories — Health risks linked to drinking-water and sanitation; health risks due to stagnant water; immediate actions that should be taken in respect of water, hygiene, and sanitation; and the nature of WHO's response to the emergency.

Health risks: Drinking-water and sanitation

• What actions are most urgent in relation to water, sanitation and health?
• What water, sanitation and hygiene behaviours are most important for protecting health during an emergency?
• What are the greatest drinking-water and sanitation dangers to human health, and who are the most vulnerable groups?
• Are there any risks which may become increasingly acute as the time since a disaster evolves?
• What is the minimum quantity of water needed?
• What are good indications that water is safe?
• Should all water used for domestic purposes be treated?
• Are there disease risks from dead bodies and what should be done for safe disposal?
• What are the health risks related to overcrowding?

Health risks: stagnant water

• Where is the risk of malaria most acute and what should be done?
• What are the health risks related to stagnant water?
• Are there different health risks linked to fresh and brackish (salty) water?
• Where is the risk of dengue fever most acute and what should be done?
• Where is the risk of Japanese Encephalitis most acute and what should be done?

Immediate action

• How can water be most effectively treated at household level and on a large scale?
• What are the options of getting safe water to people in affected areas?
• How can personal hygiene be maintained in difficult circumstances?
• What should people who have no access to sanitation facilities do and how can you minimize risk?
• Is waste management a priority in such precarious situations?

WHO response

• What has WHO done to improve access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene situation?