Health and sanitation aspects of flood management
Categories: Climate change & health Vulnerability & Adaptation Assessments, Health National Adaptation Plans, Guidance document, Country experience, Global, Climate Resilient Health Systems, Healthy Climate Action in Other Sectors
Publisher: World Meteorological Organization; Global Water Partnership
This resource presents comprehensive guidance on managing the health and sanitation dimensions of flood events within an Integrated Flood Management (IFM) framework. It outlines how floods disrupt water supply, sanitation systems, health services and environmental conditions, creating physical, biological, chemical and radiological risks. The publication describes measures across the three phases of flood management - pre‑flood planning, emergency response and post‑flood recovery - emphasizing the critical role of baseline health assessments, risk analyses, preparedness programmes, and community participation. It highlights operational guidance for health‑system management, disease‑control programmes, water‑safety planning, emergency WASH interventions, and recovery strategies to rehabilitate infrastructure and restore safe services. It aims to support multisectoral actors in reducing vulnerability, protecting public health and strengthening flood resilience through coordinated, evidence‑based approaches.
Intended users
Public health professionals; Local/city officials; Water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) practitioners; Ministries of health; Government officials (other sectors).