NIEMSE MPHN 6101: NUTRITION IN EMERGENCIES (SPECIAL EXAMS)

Food, diet, nourishment and or nutrition is sustenance for live/living; without it, the body runs out vitality, drive and energy. I will use the metaphor of a vehicle and fuel to depict the relationship between living and food. There are certain conditions or situations such as emergencies that causes food crises and predicaments. And therefore, as a matter for public health; the course unit of nutrition in emergencies is very critical and paramount.

The course unit will focus on helping learners to appreciate the different concepts in nutrition in emergencies, and the linkages and or effects/impacts of emergencies on food and nutritional requirements for people affected by emergencies. The course will also discuss the food and nutritional needs of different people, including infants, young children, pregnant women, the elderly, women and men (Gender responsive nutrition). And thereafter present different approaches used to meet the nutritional requirements of the different population in emergencies.

In addition, the course will explore the effects of malnutrition, its effects and how to prevent and treat malnutrition. Depending on the availability of time and other resources, having individual or group field exposure as part of practical application of the class room knowledge could enhance better appreciation of course unit.