15 Years After the Great East Japan Earthquake: Solutions for Infection Control in Shelters

As we approach the 15th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake on March 11, 2026, Moraine Corporation, based in Nakano, Tokyo, is focusing on critical infection control solutions in disaster shelters. Under the leadership of President Tsuneki Kusaba, the company has developed two essential products: the Moraine Infection Control Stock Kit and the Moraine Vomit Disposal Kit.

Preserving Lives in Shelters

In the aftermath of the earthquake in 2011, Moraine mobilized a team to deliver crucial medical supplies and relief materials to the affected areas. However, they soon encountered a grim reality: in crowded shelters where water and sanitation facilities were compromised, infectious diseases spread rapidly, causing significant casualties among survivors — many falling to what is known as 'disaster-related deaths'.

Even when supplies reached the disaster sites, they were often mismanaged, leading to large quantities of food and medical supplies being discarded. This distressing experience highlighted the critical need for efficient logistics and effective infection control measures in humanitarian efforts.

Lessons from Past Disasters

Drawing from experiences gained during the Noto Peninsula Earthquake in 2024, where supply chains were severely hindered due to blocked roads and difficult terrains, Moraine recognized that preparedness is essential. In such situations, medical professionals can also become victims and may not always be available at shelters to provide assistance. Thus, it became evident that individuals present at disaster sites must be equipped to understand, make decisions, and implement basic infection prevention measures.

Moraine's newly developed stock kit aims to ensure that individuals present can handle infections effectively. It is designed for one medical professional to use over a week or for five evacuees for a single day. Importantly, both kits are tailored for contexts where water is unavailable.

The Kit's Purpose and Features

The Moraine Infection Control Stock Kit offers essential items to maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of infections even in chaotic environments devoid of adequate resources. Each kit provides:

- All-in-one convenience: Everything needed is included, eliminating the need to search for materials in a disorganized environment.
- User-friendly design: Educational posters accompany the kit, ensuring that not only medical staff but everyone can quickly initiate infection control measures.

This kit focuses on the bacterial and virus-free principle aimed at ensuring no infections are introduced, transmitted, or spread, thereby enhancing safety for everyone in shelters.

Vomit Disposal Kit: Additional Protection

The Moraine Vomit Disposal Kit is another vital tool designed specifically for managing biohazardous materials such as vomit and feces - known sources of infection during emergencies. The kit includes:

- Protective gear and sterilization agents: Complete with all necessary items, the kit minimizes the risk of secondary infections.
- Illustrative manuals: Easy-to-follow guides facilitate correct procedures, helping to prevent confusion under pressure and reducing delays in emergency situations.

Tsuneki Kusaba's Vision

Tsuneki Kusaba, President of Moraine Corporation, expressed that during past large-scale disasters, he felt a profound sense of helplessness witnessing the chaos and the spread of infections in shelters. He emphasizes that the solution requires not just the right materials but also a system that allows everyone on the ground to act decisively and effectively. The kits reflect 15 years of learned wisdom aimed at protecting lives by providing robust procedures and resources.

About Moraine Corporation

Founded in 1993, Moraine Corporation specializes in infection control consulting and product introductions. The company has consistently focused on bridging the gap between emerging health challenges and practical solutions. With partnerships encompassing over 70% of designated infectious disease medical institutions nationwide, Moraine has a significant footprint in infection prevention. For more information about their products and services, visit Moraine Corporation’s website.