The Travel Clinic writes:
When travelling and there is an expected natural disaster we recommend that you visit the Foreign and Commonwealth office web page: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/foreign-commonwealth-office type in the area you are visiting; where you should be able to find up to date information and monitor the storm’s progress.
Another interesting link is http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/index.asp which is an American website, but useful for First Responders and volunteers.
Cholera frequently occurs following natural disasters and floods, when sanitation and water systems become infected. It is an acute diarrhoeal illness which is usually transmitted following ingestion of faecally contaminated water or food.
Severe cholera is rare in travellers, with mild cases presenting with diarrhoea. Incubation can be rapid, within a couple of hours, and should be treated promptly. During a consultation at The Travel Clinic Ltd we discuss how to recognise the signs and symptoms of infection, how to treat the symptoms and give advice on when you should consider taking antibiotics.
Wash your hands thoroughly before eating or handling food, and always after using the toilet. Sanitising alcohol hand gel is an alternative when washing facilities are not available.
Water should only be drunk when you are sure of its purity. Don't drink it without boiling, chemical disinfection or using a reliable filter. Bottled water is usually safe, as are hot tea and coffee, beer and wine.
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Typhoon Haiyan hits the Philippines hard
13 November 2013
Around 20 typhoons hit the Philippines each year, with most occurring from June to November. On 8 November 2013, the Philippines was hit by typhoon Haiyan. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has reported that it is difficult to travel and the disruption is expected to continue for a number of days at least. People visiting the affected regions should continue to follow the advice of local emergency authorities.