@article{ref1,
title="A rapid assessment of disaster preparedness needs and resources during the COVID-19 pandemic",
journal="International journal of environmental research and public health",
year="2021",
author="Wells, Kenneth B. and Stallard, Caroline N. and Seay, Jessica E. and Pesson, Carter L. and Haywood, Catherine and Wennerstrom, Ashley and Hancock, Jill and Sugarman, Olivia K. and Springgate, Benjamin F. and Polk, Mara and Johnson, Arthur and Meyers, Diana and Palinkas, Lawrence A.",
volume="18",
number="2",
pages="e425-e425",
abstract="BACKGROUND: This year has seen the emergence of two major crises, a significant increase in the frequency and severity of hurricanes and the COVID-19 pandemic. However, little is known as to how each of these two events have impacted the other. A rapid qualitative assessment was conducted to determine the impact of the pandemic  on preparedness and response to natural disasters and the impact of past experiences  with natural disasters in responding to the pandemic. <br><br>METHODS: Semi-structured  interviews were conducted with 26 representatives of 24 different community-based  programs in southern Louisiana. Data were analyzed using procedures embedded in the  Rapid Assessment Procedure-Informed Community Ethnography methodology, using  techniques of immersion and crystallization and focused thematic analysis. <br><br>RESULTS:  The pandemic has impacted the form and function of disaster preparedness, making it  harder to plan for evacuations in the event of a hurricane. Specific concerns  included being able to see people in person, providing food and other resources to  residents who shelter in place, finding volunteers to assist in food distribution  and other forms of disaster response, competing for funds to support  disaster-related activities, developing new support infrastructures, and focusing on  equity in disaster preparedness. However, several strengths based on disaster  preparedness experience and capabilities were identified, including providing a  framework for how to respond and adapt to COVID and integration of COVID response  with their normal disaster preparedness activities. <br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Although prior  experience has enabled community-based organizations to respond to the pandemic, the  pandemic is also creating new challenges to preparing for and responding to natural  disasters.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="1661-7827",
doi="10.3390/ijerph18020425",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18020425"
}