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What do people left homeless by disaster or war need to survive?
Click on the links to find out about the basic minimum that aid agencies try to provide.

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Medical supplies

Basic supplies:

Aspirin
Paracetamol
Antiseptic
Malaria tablets
Antibiotics (one type)
Indigestion pills
Drugs for treatment
of parasitic worms
Lice/scabies lotion
Oral rehydration
sachets
Eye ointment
Basic equipment:

Cotton wool
Soap
Bandages
Dressings
Thermometer
Forceps
Scissors
Latex gloves
Medical cards for
record keeping
Buckets
Water container
Nail brush
Additional items:

(For use by trained
health workers or
doctors only)

40 more drugs
Syringes
Disposable needles
Canulas
Sutures
Surgical blades
Catheters
Feeding tubes
Stethoscope

Source: WHO New Emergency Health Kit
Key indicator*: If the number of deaths per 1,000 people per day doubles, the situation is considered a public health emergency
Medical needs vary greatly depending on the nature of the emergency - an earthquake leaves many injured, while the spread of disease is a key risk among refugees.

Providing equal access to healthcare is a priority.

Health education, the provision of soap and vaccination programmes can all help prevent epidemics.

*Recommendation from the Sphere Project, an umbrella group of aid agencies

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