Disaster epidemiology.

Sound epidemiologic knowledge of the morbidity and mortality caused by disasters is essential when determining what relief supplies, equipment, and personnel are needed to respond effectively in emergency situations. All disasters are unique because each affected region of the world has different social, economic, and baseline health conditions. Some similarities exist, however, among the health effects of different types of disasters, that if recognized, can ensure that the limited health and medical resources of the affected community are well managed.