PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The attack on Pearl Harbor happened 81 years ago today, and the public health impact remains. In fact, it may be the United States’ most impactful man-made disaster of the 20th century.
Not only did the Japanese attack accelerate the entrance of the U.S. into World War II, it also signaled to public health experts and officials the importance of developing mitigation plans for disasters both man-made and natural.
Generations later, the CDC has a section of its website focused on health and safety concerns for all disasters — everything from food and water safety to emotional support. It is well worth a look.
KYW Newsradio’s Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.