CDC Issues Health Warning For Relief Workers in Haiti | Bukisa.com

According to the CDC relief workers who have traveled to Haiti to assist in the aftermath of the earthquake might be exposed to a variety of health risk. They have urged anyone experiencing the following symptoms after spending time in Haiti to contact a doctor immediately:

Fever

Difficulty breathing

Persistent cough

Confusion

Severe vomiting

Severe diarrhea

Yellowish skin or eyes

Unusual bruising or bleeding

For those who are planning to go to Haiti the CDC recommends getting several vaccines including hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and for those who might be exposed to animals pre-exposure rabies vaccine. They also recommend having all of the routine vaccines including H1N1 up to date.

Malaria is also a concern when traveling to Haiti, although there is no effective vaccine for Malaria preemptive use of prescription medications combined with insect repellent and mosquito nets can greatly reduce the risk.

Dengue is also common in the Dominican Republic and Haiti; there is no vaccine or medications to prevent Dengue. The CDC offers a guide to protecting yourself from insect born disease. Anthrax, HIV, and Tuberculosis are also major concerns.

Due to the lack of infrastructure and medical facilities the CDC recommends that anyone preparing to go to Haiti in the aftermath of the earthquake should take a complete first aid kit for their own use.

It is also recommended that relief workers take their own food, water purification tablets, medications, and extra glasses if necessary and insect repellent. They also recommend taking your own protective equipment including respirators and rubber gloves for handling blood and body fluids.

The CDC also warns about the mental and emotional impact on the relief workers. The ongoing exposure to extensive loss of life and serious injuries as well as massive destruction makes it imperative that relief workers are aware of their emotional state at all times. One third or more of emergency responders and relief workers could experience some form of PTSD. The CDC provides stress management tips for relief workers and emergency responders.