PUBLIC HEALTH RISKS IN CRISIS SITUATIONS

Abstract

Public health crises pose a global challenge that can result from natural disasters, armed conflicts, environmental incidents, or pandemics. In such situations, the risk of infectious disease transmission, food and water contamination, supply chain disruptions, and psychological and social impacts among affected populations significantly increases. Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H), with its
complex political-administrative structure and vulnerable infrastructure, is especially prone to the public health consequences of crisis situations. This review paper aimed to analyse existing knowledge on public health risks during crises, with a focus on BiH and other countries in the region, and to identify key challenges and measures to strengthen the public health system’s resilience. The methodology included a literature review of international databases (PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar) and an analysis of national reports, legal documents, and strategies. The results show that the main risks in B&H are related to infectious diseases following floods and migration, food and water poisoning caused by poor sanitary conditions, and psychological trauma resulting
from crises. Key measures to improve the system include strengthening laboratory capacities, mandating the implementation of international food and water safety standards, enhancing inter-institutional coordination, developing crisis response plans, and providing ongoing education for the population and healthcare workers. It is concluded that a multidisciplinary approach, which combines international experience with local specificities, can significantly lessen the public health impact of crisis situations in B&H.