Super Typhoon Yolanda, also known as Typhoon Haiyan, struck the Philippines in

November 2013 and caused damage and loss of life. The public health implications of
such a disaster are significant:

1. Injuries and death: The immediate impact of the typhoon results in injuries and death,
overwhelming healthcare facilities and resources.

2. Waterborne diseases: Contamination of water sources due to flooding increases the

risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid fever, and hepatitis A.

3. Malnutrition: Disruption of food supplies and infrastructure can lead to malnutrition,

particularly among vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.

4. Mental health issues: Trauma, loss of loved ones, and displacement can lead to
mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and
anxiety.

During a disaster like a typhoon, nurses play vital roles in various phases of disaster
management, including preparedness, response, and recovery.

During the preparedness phase, nurses play essential roles by:

1. Educating the community: They inform people about disaster preparedness, such
as evacuation routes, emergency shelters, and safety measures.
2. Developing emergency plans: Nurses aid in creating and executing disaster
response plans in healthcare facilities and communities.
3. They ensure sufficient availability and accessibility of medical supplies,
equipment, and medications before a disaster occurs.
During the response phase, nurses quickly help injured people by giving them medical
care like bandaging wounds and deciding who needs help first. They also set up places
for people to stay called medical shelters and make sure everyone gets the medicine
they need. Nurses work together with other healthcare workers to take care of patients.

During the recovery phase, nurses keep taking care of sick people and watch over their
health. They also help with problems like diseases from dirty water and feeling sad or
stressed. Nurses give support and talk to people who are having a hard time. They also
help communities get better by giving healthcare and teaching people. Nurses are really
important during disasters like typhoons because they help everyone stay healthy and
feel better.