In a cluster approach for disaster response, which entity is primarily responsible for leading the Nutrition and WASH response?

In a cluster approach for disaster response, the primary responsibility for leading the Nutrition and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) response typically falls to the Department of Health (DOH). This is because the DOH is primarily focused on health-related issues, which encompasses both nutrition and sanitation. The health sector plays a crucial role in assessing the nutritional needs of affected populations and ensuring access to safe water and adequate sanitation facilities, all of which are essential for mitigating health risks in disaster situations.

The DOH’s involvement ensures that public health considerations are integrated into the response efforts, prioritizing the health and well-being of individuals in disaster-affected areas. It allows for coordinated action in addressing malnutrition and preventing waterborne diseases, which can be prevalent in emergency settings. In this context, DOH is equipped with the necessary expertise and resources to oversee the implementation of nutrition and WASH initiatives effectively, guiding other entities toward a comprehensive disaster response.

The function of other entities like the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Office of Civil Defense, and Department of Education in disaster response is important, but they do not directly lead the nutrition and WASH sector within the cluster approach, which is why they are not seen as the primary entities in this specific context