Health and Treatment Network Response to Flood, a Natural Disaster (Case Report)

Flood is a sudden disaster resulting from snow and rain overflow, breaking dam walls, broken floodfloodgates in a few hours. Flood is more than a normal overflow of water. Such a situation is considered as a disaster if it puts human life in danger. Heavy and consistent rain can cause flood in a very short period of time. This study aimed to investigate the response of Nour city health and treatment network to the 2016 flood of Nour in Mazandaran.
In this case-descriptive study, data was collected and analyzed using checklist and statistical forms of the Ministry of Health through observation, interviewing and reviewing of existing documentation and in-person visits of healthcare staff experts.
Due to the heavy rainfall and its coincidence with snow melting in Chamestan and Baladeh regions, a severe flood followed. Immediately a rapid health assessment was carried out. Home-to-home care increased. Eighteen kilograms of perchlorine were distributed and 212 cases were tested in terms of chlorine amount. Furthermore, mental health services, non-communicable diseases, and mothers and children health services were provided. None of medical facilities and health centers in the area was evacuated and no population evacuation had taken place.
Considering the importance of intersectional cooperation in disaster management, it is important to consider sensitization of relevant authorities in order to draw their attention to common preventive measures. Beside the proper crisis Management in the health network of Nour, with respect to the high frequency occurrence of floods in the city, in order to keep the healthcare staff prepared, it is necessary to formulate and practice the response program while assessing risks.