Venezuela faces new disaster risk of disease after earthquakes

Venezuela is grappling with the looming threat of disease outbreaks as the death toll from recent earthquakes surpasses 5,000. With nearly 18,000 people displaced and struggling with access to clean water and sanitation, health organizations warn of escalating risks. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is appealing for nearly $250 million to prevent further deaths from infections and diarrheal diseases.

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The biggest health risks in the coming weeks could come from disruptions in healthcare, overcrowding, and deficiencies in water and sanitation.

PAHO chief Jarbas Barbosa highlighted that the primary health risks in the coming weeks stem from disruptions to healthcare, overcrowding, and inadequate water and sanitation. He also cautioned about reduced access to vaccinations and basic medical care. The situation is dire, as many hospitals and clinics sustained damage from the powerful earthquakes, which were stronger than the 2010 Haiti quake. Three hospitals have closed due to structural damage, and 24 others, along with over a hundred health centers, are operating below capacity.

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The situation is chaotic.

The crisis is compounded by a severe shortage of healthcare personnel in the hardest-hit La Guaira state, where nearly half of the medical staff are dead, injured, or homeless. This exacerbates the existing medical crisis caused by the country's economic collapse under President Nicolás Maduro's administration, leading to a lack of both staff and medicines. The government's response has drawn sharp criticism, with interim President Delcy Rodríguez accused of a slow reaction and prioritizing political control over rescue efforts. Rodríguez has dismissed the criticism as an opposition smear campaign, failing to acknowledge any missteps or explain the delay in mobilizing rescue personnel. Her appearance in a luxury ski jacket at a disaster site further fueled accusations of being out of touch with the suffering population.

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She is out of touch with reality.