Key facts
- Doctors in Venezuela are concerned about infectious diseases spreading among earthquake survivors.
- Thousands of displaced individuals are in crowded shelters with inadequate sanitation and clean water.
- Hospitals are experiencing shortages of essential medical supplies for treating injuries and preventing infections.
- The earthquakes have damaged or compromised 38 hospitals across Venezuela.
- Rescue efforts are ongoing, with some survivors found days after the initial quakes.
- The official death toll has exceeded 1,900, and over 40,600 people remain unaccounted for.
A week after major earthquakes struck Venezuela, medical professionals are increasingly concerned about the risk of infections and diseases among survivors. Thousands of displaced people are living in crowded shelters and makeshift outdoor encampments, facing dire sanitary conditions, a lack of clean water, and untreated injuries.
Doctors report that while the immediate trauma phase of the disaster continues, the secondary threat of infections is becoming paramount. Eugenio Cova, head of the trauma unit at Hospital del Oeste Dr. José Gregor Hernández in Caracas, noted that the hospital is already treating patients with complications from prolonged exposure to the disaster. The hospital, like many others, is also struggling with shortages of essential medical equipment, including supplies for orthopedic surgery and medicated gauze.
Nationwide, the government has reported that 38 hospitals have been damaged or compromised by the earthquakes. Despite the narrowing window for survival, international rescue teams continue their efforts, with some survivors, including a toddler, being found days after the quakes. The United States has increased its assistance, deploying 900 military personnel and 100 State Department staff to aid in relief and rescue operations.
As of Tuesday, the official death toll had surpassed 1,900, with thousands more still missing. A non-governmental database indicates over 40,600 people remain unaccounted for, leaving families in agonizing uncertainty.