The difficult and demanding conditions in the aftermath of large scale emergencies and disasters pose particular problems in the provision of health care. This publication, now in its second edition and significantly revised, explains how to use standardized packages of essential drugs, supplies and equipment under such circumstances. Both the concept and the contents of the kit, which was developed by WHO in collaboration with a large number of international and nongovernmental agencies, are designed to expedite the provision of supplies in line with priority health needs. Although primarily addressed to relief agencies, the book also provides useful information for national authorities interested in stockpiling drugs and supplies in advance.

A complete emergency kit contains two separate sets of drugs and supplies. The first set consists of 10 identical basic units containing drugs and supplies intended for use by community health workers located in remote areas. The second, or supplementary kit, contains drugs, renewable supplies and equipment needed by doctors working in first- or second-referral health facilities.

The book provides background information on the development of the kit, a detailed description of its contents, treatment guidelines and some useful checklists for suppliers and prescribers. The lists of drugs and supplies were developed following years of study, field testing and modifications. They draw upon epidemiological data, population profiles and the specific disease patterns known to follow emergencies.

This is an interagency document published by the WHO Action Programme on Essential Drugs on behalf of the organizations listed below.