The challenges of the internally displaced persons in the face of disasters: the role of the health care workers

Abstract

Introduction/Methodology: disasters unleash untold hardships to people and these bring untold challenges to victims often internally or externally displaced. The purpose of this paper is to briefly review literature on the challenges of the IDPs vulnerable groups in the face of disasters and the role of health care workers in disaster was highlighted. Results: Several empirical studies described some of these challenges which include: injuries, mal nutrition, exacerbation of communicable disease and chronic illness, and predisposition to mental disorder, injuries loss of lives and property. Conclusion: It was concluded that health care workers should render the necessary care, support and education to the IDPs before, during and in the aftermath of disasters through education on tolerance, peaceful resolution of conflict and misunderstanding leading to displacement.