EUROPE/SWITZERLAND - More Funds for healthcare to avoid another wave of deaths following the earthquake in Pakistan

Saturday, 29 October 2005

Rome (Fides Service) - Hundreds of thousands of earthquake victims in Pakistan risk death, disease and other hazards as the Winter season draws close. There is urgent need of homes, clean water and medical assistance. Already at least 53,000 people have died and 75,000 are injured. Out of a total 564 health structures, 291 were completely destroyed and 74 suffered serious damaged. Only less than half are still functioning.
Tens of thousands have received medical care from civil and military medical structures but many people in remote areas have not yet been reached. In one month the World Health Organisation has sent medicines for 240,000 people. The lack of clean water and adequate medical assistance has increased the risk of the spread of transmittable diseases such as dysentery. In this regard a system of control involving a staff of 200 doctors and experts has been set up. In vaccination campaigns against tetanus and measles already 50,000 children have been vaccinated. Because of the losses suffered, over 15% of the population could develop average and moderate mental disorders such as psychosis, acute depression, disorder. It is estimated that about 120,000 people will need therapy. (AP) (29/10/2005 Agenzia Fides; Righe:20; Parole:235)


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