Aftershocks of an earthquake may have a number of implications for medical care of survivors.
Designation of foreshock, mainshock and aftershock is done after the event cycle has ended. The earthquake with the greatest magnitude is the mainshock. Earthquakes before the mainshock are foreshocks and earthquakes after are aftershocks.
Implications of aftershocks:
(1) Aftershocks may trigger post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other psychological responses in survivors.
(2) Aftershocks may be associated with hypertension and a stress reaction, with risk of cardiac ischemia.
(3) Survivors may be exposed to the elements if they have been forced to evacuate damaged structures.
(4) Aftershocks may cause catastrophic collapse of structures or natural features weakened by the mainshock.
(5) Access to medical supplies may be limited, resulting in interruption of therapeutic regimens.
(6) Access to electricity for medical devices may be limited.
(7) Healthcare services may be overwhelmed, especially if additional casualities occur.
(8) Water supplies may be contaminated.
(9) Food supplies may be interrupted.
(10) Significant problems with sanitation may develop.
