6 ways in which earthquake can impact negatively on one's health

Earthquakes have the potential to cause a wide range of negative impacts on people's health. Here are six ways in which earthquakes can negatively impact an individual's health:

1. Physical injuries: One of the most immediate and obvious health risks during an earthquake is physical injuries caused by falling debris, collapsing structures, or being thrown off balance. These injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to more serious fractures, head injuries, and even fatalities.

2. Crush injuries: People can become trapped under collapsed structures during earthquakes, leading to crush injuries. These injuries occur when a heavy object compresses a part of the body, often resulting in fractures, internal bleeding, and damage to organs. Prompt rescue and medical attention are vital to minimize the complications from crush injuries.

3. Respiratory issues: Earthquakes can release a significant amount of dust, pollutants, and hazardous substances into the air. Breathing in these contaminants can irritate the respiratory system, leading to respiratory problems such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or exacerbating pre-existing conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

4. Mental health impacts: Experiencing a traumatic event like an earthquake can have long-lasting psychological effects. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a common mental health issue that can arise following an earthquake, characterized by anxiety, flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance. Depression, anxiety disorders, and other mental health conditions may also develop or worsen in the aftermath of an earthquake.

5. Infectious diseases: After an earthquake, access to clean water, sanitation facilities, and healthcare services may be disrupted. This can lead to an increased risk of communicable diseases, such as diarrheal diseases, cholera, or respiratory infections. Crowded temporary shelters, poor hygiene practices, and compromised immunity due to stress further contribute to the spread of infectious diseases.

6. Long-term health effects: Some health effects may not be immediately apparent after an earthquake but can develop over time. For example, exposure to toxic substances or respiratory irritants during an earthquake can lead to long-term respiratory conditions. Additionally, disruptions to healthcare infrastructure may result in delays in accessing essential treatments, leading to health complications down the line.

To mitigate the negative impacts of earthquakes on health, preparedness and response measures, including early warning systems, emergency evacuation plans, well-constructed buildings, and adequate healthcare provision, are crucial. Following earthquake safety guidelines and investing in disaster-resistant infrastructure can help reduce the health risks associated with earthquakes.