Post-flood morbidity and associated factors among flood-affected residents: a cross-sectional study in Dak Lak, Vietnam

Abstract

Floods are among the most frequent natural disasters in Vietnam and may substantially affect community health. This study aimed to investigate post-flood diseases and associated risk factors among residents in Dak Lak Province. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 183 adults in Hoa Le and Krong Kmar communes, Dak Lak Province. Participants were recruited using convenience sampling. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with post-flood morbidity. Overall, 44.3% of participants reported at least one illness during the flood or within three days thereafter. Respiratory diseases were the most common (12.0%), followed by infectious (9.3%), dermatological (8.2%), gastrointestinal (6.6%), and ocular diseases (3.8%). Female sex (OR = 2.52; 95% CI: 1.31-4.83), emergency evacuation (OR = 5.42; 95% CI: 1.41-20.90), and disruption of essential services (OR = 2.06; 95% CI: 1.01-4.18) were significantly associated with post-flood illness. Flooding was associated with substantial morbidity, particularly respiratory and infectious diseases. Strengthening access to safe water, healthcare services, and disease surveillance may help reduce post-flood health risks in affected communities.