Publications

Emergency preparedness and disaster management for primary health care in Africa from the perspective of climate hazard and extreme weather events

Publication typeJournal articles
SOURCE: http://www.phcfm.orgOpen AccessAfrican Journal of Primary Health Care & Family Medicine
RegionAfrica

Emergency preparedness and disaster management for primary health care in Africa from the perspective of climate hazard and extreme weather events

Climate-related hazards are impacting community health and healthcare provision across the African continent, resulting in increased vulnerability and reduced capacity to withstand further impacts. While it is important to recognise that not all climate-related hazards result in disasters, this is often the case in populations that are already vulnerable, creating a vicious cycle that further increases risk. However, with appropriate multisectoral collaboration, planning and preparedness, community resilience can be strengthened, thereby reducing the likelihood and severity of disasters. Situated at the interface between health systems and communities, primary care providers are uniquely placed to identify climate-related vulnerabilities and emerging risks.

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