Stop propagating disaster myths

The international response to the recent tragic earthquakes in Turkey, Greece and Taiwan reinforces the need to reassess the myths and realities surrounding disasters, and to find ways to stop these destructive tales. Most of those myths cover the fear of epidemics and the place of external assistance in the rescue effort. It is urged that the media and donor community should work together to channelise the funds and use them effectively, particularly for planning and making sure that help reaches in the hour of need and not after the emergency has lapsed.