Disasters are unpredictable; it may also have a short or long term effect in the community depending on its impact and the community's mitigation and preparation. It may affect not only the developmental trajectory of the children but it also affects their psychological functioning, emotional adjustment and most of all their health.
With regards to the health needs of the children, the U.S. News released that according to most pediatricians, the country still lacks enough resources to treat the children in case a disaster strikes. For example, a terrorist attack, certain public health emergency happened or a natural disaster occurs then medical requirements of the children are not yet readily available.
Little do they know, vaccines that are usually prepared are intended for the adults -- having such drug formulation and proper dosing for pediatrics left not at hand. Now, since this has been found alarming by most concerned groups, organizations and institutions, it is therefore escalated to proper authorities for further analysis and immediate action.
Disaster Preparedness Advisory Council also admitted that they are less prepared in handling children patients or victims than in dealing with such conditions among the adults. They are also trying their best to address the primary concern of the State.
On the other hand, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is taking full advantage of the pathways available to ensure the safety of the pediatric population. The agency is believed to be preparing steps in administering certain procedures and measures to obtain safety and preparedness on these inevitable occurrences.
Addressing the needs of the children does not only stop right after a disaster happened, their psychological and emotional well-being must also be given attention. After providing the basic needs of a child, an immediate psychological treatment and debriefing session must be rendred right away.
Traumatic events might be anticipated and such scenarios may possibly haunt them in the future if not synthesized properly. They may experience a wide range of difficulty on adjusting in the situation, which may hinder or affect their physical, mental, intellectual and emotional well-being.
Children must always be protected from violence and even from the media. To promote resiliency is one of the main goals set by the American Academy of Pediatrics as current stressors may aggravate the child's recovery from certain disasters.
