Empowering Humanitarian Workers:
The Health Emergencies in Large Populations (HELP) Course

The Health Emergencies in Large Populations (HELP) course, offered by the prestigious Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in collaboration with the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, has been a cornerstone in disaster preparedness and management training for over 25 years. This intensive program is designed to equip humanitarian workers with the public health principles necessary to effectively respond to both natural and conflict-related disasters.

A Diverse and Experienced Cohort

HELP attracts a diverse group of participants from various sectors, including civil society, governmental, and non-governmental organizations, as well as the Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement. The range of professions represented includes nurses, physicians, public health professionals, lawyers, journalists, managers, planners, logisticians, and aid workers. This blend of expertise enriches the learning environment, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to humanitarian assistance.

Course Objectives and Structure

The primary goal of HELP is to address the needs of disaster-affected populations through a public health lens. The course provides participants with essential skills and competencies to effectively respond to the public health needs in humanitarian situations. The training is delivered through a combination of recorded modules and live sessions, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the topics.

Key topics covered include:

Disaster Planning	International Health Regulations	Structure of Humanitarian Assistance
Disease Management	Epidemiology of Disasters	Shelter in Emergencies
Water and Sanitation in Emergencies	Causes of Conflict	Nutrition in Emergencies
Mission of the ICRC	Food Security and Livelihoods	Reproductive Health
International Humanitarian Law	Delivery of Health Services	Natural Disasters
Mental Health in Emergencies	Personal Security

Hands-On Simulation and Practical Application

A highlight of the HELP course is the one-day simulation exercise, allowing participants to apply their acquired knowledge and skills in a realistic setting. This hands-on approach ensures that participants are well-prepared to handle real-world humanitarian crises.

Outcomes and Benefits

Upon completing the HELP course, participants will be able to:

Describe the essential issues related to public health, healthcare, management, law, and ethics in humanitarian action, and identify methods to address them. Analyze health and other humanitarian needs using a multidisciplinary approach that considers the perceptions, vulnerabilities, and capabilities of the affected populations. Plan, manage, and evaluate activities in response to major humanitarian crises.

Who Should Attend?

The HELP course is ideal for healthcare and public health professionals involved in health emergencies and humanitarian assistance. Whether you are a seasoned professional or new to the field, this workshop offers invaluable training that can enhance your ability to make a significant impact in disaster-affected populations.

For those dedicated to improving the health and well-being of vulnerable populations in times of crisis, the HELP course stands as an essential educational experience, blending rigorous academic training with practical, real-world application. Join the ranks of trained professionals who are making a difference in humanitarian efforts worldwide.