Abstract
Introduction: The first rescue actions by pharmacists was witnessed at the time of the Nobi Great Earthquake in 1891. In this study, the author investigated the medical rescue actions of pharmacists after the Kanto Great Flood in August 1910.
Methods: The author researched materials of the Tokyo Metropolitan Archives, the library of the Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, the National Diet Library Digital Collection and the author's own studies.
Results and Discussion: Pharmacists took two actions at the time of this disaster : (1) supplying medicines and (2) conducting hygienic activities by inspecting the drinking water and supplying disinfectants. The Tokyo Pharmaceutical Association set up a tent from which drugs were dispensed to the disaster areas. Prefectural field clinics issued prescriptions and members of the Tokyo Pharmaceutical Association dispensed them without charging a fee. Prefectural inspectors and pharmacists jointly inspected the drinking water. After the disaster, the pharmacists were recognized for their service and received awards from each
of the prefectural governments. Among them, the Kanagawa Pharmaceutical Association received a commendation from the Minister of Home Affairs.
