Author(s): Vani S and Mini Joseph

Abstract:
Floods had created a huge havoc for the state of Kerala during the months of July and August 2018. These months have seen a significant rise in the incidence of both natural and manmade emergencies with a concomitant increase in the numbers of stricken, displaced persons. While sickness and homelessness are perhaps the most visible problems for affected populations, malnutrition combined with micronutrient deficiencies is not uncommon and equally serious. So the study envisaged to improve understanding of the nutritional implications of an emergency situation. It highlighted the need to include nutrition in plans for emergency preparedness. The main focus of the study was to identify the nutritional lacunae that occurred in the families displaced during the floods. It aimed to check the adequacy of nutrient intake of each family. A sample of 25 families (12 families from upper Kuttanad and 13 families from lower Kuttanad) consisting 100 members were selected from the Kuttanad Taluk. A structured questionnaire to assess the socio-economic status, dietary patterns, sanitation and economic losses was used as a tool. The food intake during the flood periods was assessed with the help of Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) and Nutritive value for foods. The data was analyzed statistically using appropriate statistical tests.