Venezuela has reported a total of 3,535 fatalities following two powerful earthquakes that struck the capital and nearby coastal regions over a week ago. The quakes, with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, left approximately 18,000 people homeless, with over 16,000 individuals sustaining injuries and nearly 18,000 without shelter.
The impact of the disaster in Caracas and La Guaira, particularly the coastal region, has been significant, prompting criticism of the government’s response efforts. Around 12,800 individuals are currently housed in 80 shelters in Caracas and La Guaira.
Health risks are a growing concern in these temporary shelters, with issues such as respiratory infections, diarrhea, and skin diseases on the rise. Dr. Mauricio Cerpa Calderon from the Pan American Health Organization has highlighted the urgent need to address these health challenges, including vaccine-preventable diseases like tetanus and measles.
Despite mounting frustration over the government’s delayed and insufficient response, Acting president Delcy Rodriguez has defended their actions. Security forces were swiftly deployed post-earthquakes, with plans in place to establish a new military unit to enhance emergency response capabilities.
In La Guaira, authorities are burying earthquake victims, as witnessed by Reuters reporters on Monday. The Ministry of Communication and Information in Venezuela has not yet provided a statement on the situation. To manage the increasing number of casualties, international organizations like PAHO and WHO have provided technical support and resources, including body bags and refrigerated containers.
The United Nations is collaborating with the Venezuelan government to intensify aid operations, with various teams involved in search and rescue efforts and medical support. National health authorities are considering targeted vaccination campaigns in temporary shelters based on risk assessments and vaccine availability.
The U.S. chargé d’affaires in Caracas has commended Venezuela’s compliance with humanitarian assistance requests, emphasizing ongoing efforts to support affected communities. Local and international responses are being mobilized to address the needs of those impacted by the earthquakes.