Flooding and Health

Abstract

Global warming and rapid demographic transitions have drastically increased populations in flood-prone areas, escalating global disease burdens, hospitalizations, and mortality. Flooding triggers severe health crises, including water-borne, vector-borne, and respiratory diseases, disproportionately affecting vulnerable groups like the elderly and those with chronic comorbidities in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Despite challenges in implementing clinical prophylaxis like doxycycline for leptospirosis during real-world disasters, evidence shows that proper macro-management—such as early warning systems, infrastructure strengthening, and coordinated medical and sanitation planning—can successfully mitigate these impacts. Ultimately, flash floods present a systemic threat to healthcare facilities, akin to emerging infectious diseases. To withstand intensifying planetary and demographic pressures, the medical profession must strengthen cross-sectoral collaboration to enhance healthcare infrastructure resilience and protect vulnerable populations.