The Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) is supporting the Ministry of Public Health (MSPP) in its response to the severe flooding caused by torrential rains associated with Hurricane Melissa, which has resulted in loss of life and significant damage in several departments of Haiti.

According to the General Directorate of Civil Protection (DGPC), the floods have so far caused 31 deaths, 20 injuries, and 21 missing persons as of October 31. More than 1,000 homes have been flooded, 10 health facilities have been affected, and more than 15,000 people are currently displaced and housed in temporary shelters.

Alongside the Ministry of Health, PAHO/WHO field teams are mobilized to support affected communities, ensure continued access to essential health services, and prevent disease outbreaks. Teams are continuing their visits to shelters and health facilities in the affected departments to assess needs and strengthen the local response.

At the request of Dr. Bertrand Sinal, Minister of Public Health and Population (MSPP), nearly 2 tons of medical supplies have been delivered to the West Health Directorate. This delivery was made possible thanks to the support of the European Union's Directorate-General for Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) and the Islamic Medical Association of North America (IMANA). This delivery will help strengthen the capacity to provide care in health facilities in the affected areas.

Medical supplies, as well as water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) equipment, are being pre-positioned to support the rapid response to a potential resurgence of cholera cases following the floods. These resources will soon be deployed to all affected departments.

Health needs remain significant, and continued support is required to provide assistance to the affected populations in a complex operational context. Communication difficulties are hindering the flow of information from health facilities and displacement sites, complicating coordination and rapid response. Furthermore, blocked roads are limiting the delivery of aid by land, while funding constraints threaten to delay the implementation of priority health interventions.

HL/ HaitiLibre