PAHO distributes 2.9 million vaccines in Venezuela post-earthquake

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has coordinated the delivery of 2.9 million vaccine doses and essential water purification supplies to Venezuela. This critical aid was dispatched in response to the health emergencies triggered by the magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 earthquakes that struck the country on June 24.

The international organization's technical and logistical support aims to prevent and contain potential epidemiological outbreaks in the most vulnerable areas affected by the seismic events. The acquisition of these medical supplies involved a combination of PAHO's Revolving Fund, utilizing Venezuelan state resources for accessible pricing, and international donations.

Between June and July, PAHO facilitated the distribution of a comprehensive shipment that included 1.23 million doses of pentavalent vaccine, 1.03 million doses of tetanus toxoid, 250,000 doses against canine rabies, 199,000 doses of the MMR vaccine (measles, rubella, and mumps), 100,000 doses against yellow fever, and 96,000 doses of BCG for tuberculosis. An additional 10,000 doses of measles and rubella vaccine were also included.

Beyond vaccine distribution, PAHO is actively involved in the broader health recovery efforts. This includes providing emergency medical attention, with over 226,000 people assisted in hospitals and 44,000 direct consultations facilitated by Emergency Medical Teams. The organization is also bolstering public health infrastructure by supporting the reactivation of a key public health laboratory in La Guaira, strengthening the National Institute of Hygiene, and advancing the digitalization of epidemiological surveillance systems.

PAHO has reaffirmed its commitment to providing ongoing technical accompaniment to Venezuela. The organization stated its dedication to supporting the nation in recovering its health system, promoting efficient, coordinated, and evidence-based responses to protect the health of the affected population. Official government figures indicate a total of 6,509 fatalities resulting from the earthquakes.

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PAHO reaffirms its commitment to continue accompanying Venezuela in the recovery of its health system, promoting an increasingly efficient, coordinated, and evidence-based response to protect the health of the affected population.