Disaster Relief Workers: Health Issu

Introduction: Disaster is defined as any occurrence that causes damage, ecological disruption, loss of human life or deterioration of health and health services on a scale sufficient to warrant an extraordinary response from outside the affected community or area. Internationally, major disasters occur frequently, but for one country, they are unusual events. It causes severe health damage to that country. In this scenario, our rescue teams/ relief workers risk their own lives to save the life of others. Methods: The concerned topic was searched on internet in different databases with abstract or full free text available in English in previous five years. Results: This group is more vulnerable than general population to various accidents even death in relief process and also health problems such as post traumatic stress disorder, mental health risks, heat disorder, radiation exposure, respiratory problems, skin and mucous membrane problems, digestive problems, eye irritation and fatigue etc. In developed countries, their problems are dealt with great zeal, but unfortunately, in our country, we fail to address the health issue of these workers in spite of having the most important role in disaster management by providing physical and rehabilitative services to survivors. It has been proven that work output of these workers is enhanced if their health issues are taken care of properly. Discussion: We want to acknowledge the health concerns of rescue teams with possible solutions.