Expert warns of health problems that could occur in the earthquake zone
Stating that the post-earthquake process was evaluated in terms of health risks in 3 stages, infectious disease and microbiology specialist Dr. Güler Delibalta made evaluations on the subject. Delibalta said: “The first phase is the 0-4 day interval that covers the earthquake during and after the earthquake. The first 4 days are important, this period is usually the period during which the survivors are rescued and the first treatment of the injured. The second phase is the interval of 4-30 days after the earthquake. This is the period when infectious diseases can first appear. During this period food and water borne infections or droplet borne infections can be observed. The third phase includes recovery and return to normal after 30 days. However, some infections, such as Hepatitis A and B, which have a long incubation period, can be seen in this process. During this period, too, there may be an increase in the incidence of infectious diseases in the disaster area and new infections may arise.
“INFECTIONS CAN DEVELOP IN PATIENTS WITH CRUSH SYNDROME”
Dr. Dr. Guler Delibalta said:
“As a result of crush syndrome, shock, renal failure, heart and respiratory failure can be seen. An infection can develop in patients with crush syndrome. The presence of open wounds, developing organ failure and reduced immunity associated with malnutrition can increase the risk of infection. Infectious diseases and epidemics are associated with the long-term effects of the earthquake. A planned and controlled reception environment should be provided in shelters, close contact should be avoided as much as possible, safe water consumption and hygiene should be important.
“VACCINATION SHOULD NOT BE IGNORED”
Emphasizing the importance of vaccination against the risk of contagious infection, specialist Dr Güler Delibalta said: “After the earthquake, there are crush injuries and skin infections due to contagious and dirty wounds. These people are also at risk for tetanus. For this reason, tetanus vaccination should not be neglected in earthquake victims who have come out with injuries.
Delibalta stated that childhood vaccinations should not be neglected after the earthquake, saying “The age groups for vaccination should be determined and childhood measles vaccinations should be done as soon as people start to gather in temporary shelters.”