HTH -- Haiti Earthquake

January 29, 2010. CDC Issues Health Alert Notice for persons leaving Haiti

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

A 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck Haiti on Tuesday afternoon, January 12, 2010, close to the nation's capital of Port-au-Prince. Conditions in the area remain hazardous, including extensive damage to buildings, roads, and other infrastructure.

Disease risk after a major earthquake

After the Haitian earthquake, you may have been exposed to an illness spread by:

Contaminated food or drinking water, Mosquitoes or other insects, Close contact with an ill person

If you have any of these symptoms, talk to a doctor:

Fever, Difficulty breathing, Persistent cough, Confusion, Severe vomiting, Severe diarrhea, Yellowish skin or eyes, Unusual bruising or bleeding

Tell the doctor you were in Haiti during the earthquake as you discuss your health. Be sure to give the doctor this paper.

Risk of malaria and dengue infection

Malaria and dengue are serious diseases spread by bites from infected mosquitoes. If you become ill with a fever and shaking chills for up to 1 year from now, you should seek immediate medical attention and tell the doctor that you were in Haiti.

Wounds

If you have a cut or other injury that is painful, swollen, or seems to be leaking or getting worse, talk to a doctor.

Other health concerns

If you think you may have other health problems, now or later, talk to a doctor. If you have medicines that you are running out of, talk to a doctor.

Getting support after a disaster

Natural disasters often cause stress, difficulty sleeping, and feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and anger. Many people find support and comfort by talking to family members, close friends, doctors, and religious leaders. If you continue to feel badly, or need more support, tell your doctor. Your doctor may suggest other experts who can help you.