It is assumed that students reading this module will have a basic understanding of the function of water supplies and sanitation in public health. It is pointed out that no two disasters (or emergencies) are alike, and that each situation has to be assessed independently.

The early phases of most emergencies are characterised by being chaotic. Funding is always short at the beginning and it is crucial that what funds are available, are very specifically targeted. Staffing takes time to put into place, and a balance has to be achieved between anticipated funding and the staffing necessary to implement the programme. While many professionals in the sector may have the technical competence to handle this type of emergency situation, rather fewer have the mental fortitude needed to operate where there has been such a huge loss of life.

It is within this ‘milieu’ that this case study came about.