Potential Health Impact from the El Nino
Some parts of the Nation are experiencing a drought and abnormally dry condition. This is expected to expand to all over Micronesia and extend towards the month of April of this year and potentially towards the early part of this summer. The impacts of the drought conditions will bring harmful health impacts among other issues to our communities especially in the outer islands and among the most vulnerable populations including people with compromised health conditions, the elderly and children with special health care needs. The human health implications of a drought generally include the following:
- Compromised quantity and quality of drinking water;
- Diminished living conditions related to sanitation and hygiene;
- Compromised food and nutrition;
- Infectious diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, conjunctivitis (pink eye), and other water and vector borne diseases.
The public is advised to be vigilant and take appropriate measures to protect you and your loved ones.
Thank you.