Natural and Manmade Disasters: Vulnerable Populations

In recent decades, the influence of natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, heat waves, droughts, floods and epidemics, on Global Health Security have become more prominent. In addition, disaster events stemming from civil unrest or natural disasters create humanitarian and refugee crisis thereby contributing to local, regional and global health security challenge. These disaster events also highlight the social, physical, psychological and economic vulnerabilities among population groups. Vulnerable populations, including pregnant women, families with children, older adults, disabled and low-income individuals suffer disproportionate harm in disasters. Vulnerable populations are less likely to undertake self-protective actions before, during or after disasters. They are also at greater risk for poor physical and psychological health outcomes after a disaster. This chapter focuses on the impact of disasters on the following vulnerable population groups: pregnant women and families with children, and older adults. It highlights the complex and unique needs of women, children, and older adults which can lead to catastrophic consequences during and after a disaster. Case studies are included to demonstrate the vulnerabilities and ensuing consequences for women and children and older adults during or after disasters.