A Guide to health preparedness in the event of volcanic eruptions

The Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO) developed this Guide to Health Preparedness in the Event of Volcanic Eruptions, with the support of the European Community Humanitarian Office (ECHO), in the context of a DIPECHO project carried out in Colombia and Ecuador, between April 2004 and May 2005.

The purpose of this publication is to guide and facilitate the work to be done by the health sector in the event of a volcanic eruption, by fostering intra- and multi-sectoral coordination. The document has five different modules: (1) The health sector in the face of volcanic risks; (2) Protection of health services in the event of volcanic eruptions; (3) Damage assessment and health needs analysis regarding volcanic eruptions; (4) Environmental health and volcanic risk; and, (5) Communication in the event of volcanic eruptions. These modules are accompanied by graphic presentations that facilitate their training activities.

These materials were developed based on a comprehensive process of information gathering, systematization and validation. Over 100 experts, particularly from Colombia and Ecuador, participated in this broad-based process.

This publication is available at:
www.paho.org/desastres