Disaster Epidemiology Methods and Applications

Disaster Epidemiology: Methods and Applications is a comprehensive guide that applies the principles and methods of epidemiologic research to assess the short- and long-term health impacts of disasters—whether natural, technological, or manmade. With global trends showing increasing vulnerability due to climate change, urbanization in high-risk zones, and novel threats like terrorism and pandemics, understanding how to systematically study and mitigate the health consequences of disasters is more vital than ever.

This book equips public health practitioners, researchers, and policy makers with practical tools to conduct surveillance, rapid needs assessments, and epidemiologic investigations in the chaotic and resource-limited post-disaster context. Drawing from real-world examples and case studies, the text bridges theory and application to help professionals evaluate public health risks, inform decision-making, and improve community resilience and preparedness.

In addition to its relevance for disaster response, the methodologies presented are also applicable to public health emergencies such as infectious disease outbreaks, refugee crises, and emerging global health threats. Serving both as a practical manual and academic reference, this resource is ideal for use in public health training, emergency management programs, or field operations.

Key Features:

•  Epidemiologic Methods for Disaster Settings: Provides detailed guidance on surveillance systems, rapid health assessments, cohort and case-control studies, and risk communication in emergency contexts.
•  Real-World Applications: Includes case studies and practical examples from natural disasters (e.g., hurricanes, earthquakes), technological incidents (e.g., nuclear accidents), and humanitarian crises.
•  Quantifying Impact: Teaches how to measure morbidity, mortality, and psychosocial impacts in disaster-affected populations, enabling evidence-based interventions and planning.
•  Decision-Making Support: Designed to supply timely, accurate, and actionable public health data to responders, governments, and NGOs in crisis situations.
•  Covers All Hazard Types: Methods apply not only to natural disasters but also to complex emergencies such as climate events, infectious disease outbreaks, chemical spills, and terrorism-related incidents.
•  Focus on Vulnerable Populations: Addresses how to assess and reduce the disproportionate impact of disasters on children, the elderly, low-income groups, and displaced populations.
•  Versatile Use: Suitable as a reference guide for field professionals or as a core text in academic programs on public health, emergency management, epidemiology, or global health.
•  Enhancing Resilience: Emphasizes using data not only to respond to crises but to build long-term community resilience and inform future disaster preparedness and mitigation strategies.