Abstract
Introduction. Epidemiological data capture from military exercises and operations can highlight treatment requirements specific to operating in certain environmental conditions. Such data is invaluable to enable accurate planning for future exercises. Epidemiological data were collected during Exercise SAIF SAREEA 3 (SS3) to provide insight into medical provision requirements for low-tempo military operations in hot, desert climates.
Method. Epidemiological data was collected from all consultations conducted during the exercise within the LAND Medical Reception Station (MRS), 24 Aug 18 to 14 Nov 18, using Epi-NATO surveillance systems.
Results. Of the 1414 total consultations recorded, 759 were first presentations and 665 were follow up consultations, with 35 referrals made to hospitals. 1348 days of limited duties were given and 258 working days were lost. The most common coding reported for consultations were ‘non-battle non-sport related injuries’, ‘sport related injuries’ and ‘dermatological'.
Discussion. The data highlights the most common cause of injuries and the role of assets such as dental, sexual and mental health services for future deployments. A number of explanations are considered in relation to the patterns identified and the effect on future planning for working in hot climates. Furthermore, Ex SS3 had reduced numbers of personnel requiring Role 2 MTF or HN MTF services, which again this raises further considerations for future deployments.
Method. Epidemiological data was collected from all consultations conducted during the exercise within the LAND Medical Reception Station (MRS), 24 Aug 18 to 14 Nov 18, using Epi-NATO surveillance systems.
Results. Of the 1414 total consultations recorded, 759 were first presentations and 665 were follow up consultations, with 35 referrals made to hospitals. 1348 days of limited duties were given and 258 working days were lost. The most common coding reported for consultations were ‘non-battle non-sport related injuries’, ‘sport related injuries’ and ‘dermatological'.
Discussion. The data highlights the most common cause of injuries and the role of assets such as dental, sexual and mental health services for future deployments. A number of explanations are considered in relation to the patterns identified and the effect on future planning for working in hot climates. Furthermore, Ex SS3 had reduced numbers of personnel requiring Role 2 MTF or HN MTF services, which again this raises further considerations for future deployments.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Journal | BMJ Military Health |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 30 May 2020 |
Keywords
- Saif Sareea 3
- hot
- desert
- epidemiology
- Role 1
Access to Document
- Full-text PDF (author’s accepted manuscript)
This is the author accepted manuscript (AAM). The final published version (version of record) is available online via BMJ at http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjmilitary-2019-001360 . Please refer to any applicable terms of use of the publisher.