PREFACE

Preparing for the health problems experienced by large populations displaced by natural or man-made disasters is among the greatest challenges facing public health officials in the world today. The diversity of problems experienced in long- and short-term refugee situations demands a diversity of approaches in disease surveillance, control, and prevention. The Centers for Disease Control's experience over the past decade has allowed us to evolve approaches which allow for timely and accurate surveillance data to be generated even in extremely adverse conditions. The resulting prevention activities are well focused on the most important public health problems.

These reports and guidelines have been developed by a number of CDC professionals working with international organizations and public health agencies, such as, the Pan American Health Organization, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, the United States Agency for International Development, and the private voluntary organization's of refugee situations. These reports and guidelines reflect our belief that appropriate, cost-effective disease prevention technology can be rapidly applied in most situations that will impact positively the lives of the affected populations. The recommendations underscore our organizational interest and commitment to a global health agenda that will improve the health status of people worldwide. International disaster preparedness and refugee activities are collaborative efforts. CDC efforts are performed jointly with many other governmental, nongovernmental, and international organizations. It is my hope that public health professionals involved in dealing with these issues will find this information useful in their planning, training, and emergency preparedness efforts.

William L. Roper, M.D., M.P.H., Director
Centers for Disease Control


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