10 INFECTIOUS DISEASE, DISASTER PLANNING & WOUND CARE | 2019 | www.elitecme.com INFECTIOUS DISEASE  | A lthough there may be a degree of sen- sationalism to it, there’s an ongoing trend to remind healthcare providers of which precautions they can take to improve infection control and emergency response in preparation for potential natural disasters and other catastrophic events. The other reality of an unforeseen, wide-scale emergent situation, however, is that to some extent there will be no preventing of post-event illnesses and diseases. In the fall of 2018 alone, the strongest storm to hit the United States in 50 years, Hurricane Michael, and some of the most severe wild- fires in U.S. history impacted communities in the Carolinas and California, respectively. While much media coverage occurred “in the moment” during these events, there is not as much information on those who have become sick in the wake of such events. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers a variety of education for health- care providers who are confronted with the disease aftermath that is sure to present itself when disasters occur. This article will provide an overview of some of the noted illnesses and diseases, including the specific symptoms to monitor and treatment strategies proposed by the CDC. CRYPTOSPORIDIOSIS A diarrheal disease caused by the micro- scopic parasite cryptosporidium. Commonly known as “crypto,” the parasite is most com- Infectious Disease: What Happens After “The Disaster”? While establishing proactive measures for the potential of unseen catastrophes remains important, healthcare providers must also ensure infection control measures aimed at the aftermath of disaster. by Joe Darrah ISTOCK