Lessons to be learned from the 2002 floods in Dresden, Germany

Abstract

Conclusion: Let me finally summarize the most important points from the Dresden flood: when severe floods occur, as in 2002, the following three points should be considered. Firstly, the public health community has to be prepared with regard to public hygiene. Secondly, important hospital equipment, such as electric power supply, has to be assembled in a waterproof environment. Finally, for general crisis management, the decision hierarchy between hospitals and administrative authorities should be set up prior to the crisis. © 2005 World Health Organization.