Hurricane Response Guide for Environmental Public Health Professionals
Identify Environmental Public Health Risks for the Affected Population Aligns to EPHEPR Function 1
In the wake of a hurricane, communities face a myriad of EPH threats that can significantly impact human health and well-being. Identifying these EPH risks is crucial for the affected population during and after a hurricane because it allows professionals to develop effective mitigation strategies. Hurricanes can cause widespread disruption to essential infrastructure and environmental systems, which leads to complex and evolving public health challenges. These challenges may include: 1. Contamination of drinking water sources caused by flooding and storm surges 2. Sewage overflows and wastewater treatment system failures 3. Widespread power outages affecting food safety and medical services 4. Accumulation of debris and hazardous materials 5. Increased vector breeding sites in standing water 6. Mold growth in flood-damaged buildings 7. Air quality issues due to damaged industrial facilities or widespread generator usage The tasks within this function are designed to quickly assess these risks, especially for vulnerable populations who may be disproportionately affected. By engaging with the Incident Command System (ICS), EPH professionals contribute vital expertise in forecasting and addressing immediate and future health risks after a hurricane. Effective execution of this function lays the groundwork for all subsequent EPH response activities, ensuring that resources are appropriately allocated and that mitigation efforts are targeted where they are most needed. This proactive approach is essential in protecting public health and supporting community resilience in the face of hurricane-induced environmental challenges. Tasks Conduct a rapid needs assessment to identify immediate EPH risks/needs and match them with existing capabilities. Determine impacts on water systems by implementing a water quality monitoring program to assess the safety of drinking water, recommending regular testing of private water sources, or identifying contaminants and other pollutants in accordance with the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) . Determine the impact to regulated facilities such as retail food establishments, schools, daycares, hospitals, and other institutions, such as jails. Assess historical risks of vector-borne diseases and develop a plan to help control nuisances and pests, often exacerbated by floodwaters, debris, and solid waste. Identify and map potential releases of HAZMAT from sources such as industrial facilities, storage tanks, or transportation accidents in the affected areas. Evaluate the operational condition of key public health infrastructure (drinking water, wastewater, power, etc.). Assess EPH conditions in disaster shelters, with a focus on monitoring medical shelters, shelters for pets, and those accommodating large numbers of individuals with access and functional needs (AFN), chronic health conditions, substance abuse issues, and disabilities. Verify that environmental issues such as sanitation, hygiene, food operations, facility safety, crowding, waste management, and indoor air quality are monitored and documented using tools such as the CDC Shelter Assessment Tool . Identify EPH risks specific to populations with AFN and areas with vulnerable communities. Engage with emergency management and public health officials to forecast potential EPH risks based on changing post-hurricane conditions.
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