Prevalence of Hand Hygiene in Post-Disaster Environments and Affecting Factors: A Study on Earthquake-Affected Populations in Turkey

Introduction: Natural disasters can increase the risk of infection by severely disrupting access to basic needs, including clean water and sanitation. Hand hygiene, one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent infections, often becomes a challenge in such situations. The study focused on individuals living in temporary housing following the earthquakes in Turkey on February 6, 2023.Objective: The main objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of hand hygiene practices and the factors affecting these behaviors among individuals affected by disasters.Methods: Data were collected from more than 3,600 randomly selected participants living in container cities in four provinces: Adana, Osmaniye, Hatay, and Gaziantep. Both quantitative and qualitative research methods were used to ensure a comprehensive understanding of hand hygiene behaviors. A detailed questionnaire was used to assess factors such as frequency of hand washing, access to water, and use of hygiene products. In addition, focus group discussions were conducted to explore individual and environmental factors influencing hygiene practices.Results: The results showed that although most individuals were aware of the importance of hand hygiene, several barriers, such as limited access to clean water, psychological stress, and a lack of hygiene supplies, hindered their ability to maintain proper hygiene. The frequency of hand washing increased slightly after the disaster, but challenges such as forgetfulness, time constraints, and skin irritation from inadequate hygiene products were common.Conclusion: This study provides important insights into the prevalence of and factors influencing hand hygiene practices in post-earthquake container cities in Turkey. Findings suggest that although individuals have a basic awareness of the importance of hand hygiene, multiple barriers, including access to water, hygiene supplies, and psychological stress, significantly impact their ability to maintain proper hygiene practices after a disaster. This study highlights the critical need for continued education, improved access to hygiene supplies, and psychosocial support to sustain hygiene behaviors in post-disaster settings. By addressing both physical and psychological barriers, public health interventions can be more effective in reducing the risk of infectious diseases in disaster-affected populations. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the importance of preparedness for future disasters by ensuring hygiene resources are readily available and individuals are equipped with the knowledge and skills to maintain hygiene under adverse conditions.