FLASH
Shkruar nga Pamfleti
Venezuela's healthcare system is facing extraordinary pressure almost a week after two powerful earthquakes, as the World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations agencies warn of the growing risk of infectious disease outbreaks.
According to official Venezuelan government figures, the death toll has exceeded 1,700, as local and international search and rescue teams continue to pull bodies and survivors from the rubble.
WHO reported that at least three health centers were severely damaged, while six others were damaged or only partially functioning. Of the 21 health facilities assessed, most continue to operate, but face overcrowding, staff shortages, and a significant increase in cases requiring emergency treatment and surgical interventions.
WHO spokesman Christian Lindmeier said the health system, weakened by years of economic crisis and lack of investment, was operating beyond its capacity. He said preliminary reports showed chaotic service delivery, uncontrolled patient flow and delays in surgical treatments.
Lindmeier added that the lack of specialized personnel, especially in obstetric care services in La Guaira state, has created critical gaps in healthcare delivery.
UN agencies also expressed concern about the plight of thousands of displaced people, who are spending days in the open, in cars, parks or in overcrowded shelters with poor hygiene conditions.
More than 15,800 people have been affected by the earthquakes, according to UNHCR spokeswoman Carlotta Wolf, a figure that represents the official number of displaced people. She warned that this number is expected to rise and that many families in La Guaira are also facing food shortages.
WHO estimates that current conditions significantly increase the risk of outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, such as measles, due to low immunization coverage, as well as diseases transmitted by water or mosquitoes, including dengue, yellow fever and malaria.
The UN Resident Coordinator in Venezuela, Gianluca Rampolla del Tindaro, said the organization continues to support local authorities, and has also provided 10,000 body bags for victims. He stressed that, although more than 72 critical hours for finding survivors have passed, search and rescue operations are continuing in the hardest-hit areas.
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