Tropical Storm Erika Emergency Health - Dominica - Pan American Health Organization 2015

Tropical Storm Erika made landfall in Dominica on 27 August 2015 producing torrential rains across the island and causing flash flooding. An estimated 20 people have been reported dead and 35 persons declared missing in the north-eastern and south-eastern areas of the island. The National Emergency Operations Center confirmed that over 570 people are homeless 600 have been evacuated and close to 270 individuals are living in temporary shelters. Major damage to roadways and bridges has resulted in communities being isolated with limited access to food and potable water. The provision of essential services has been disrupted including many health facilities impacted by flooding with some experiencing loss of supplies and lack of water. With the support of DFATD and other donors the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is providing emergency assistance to support the provision of emergency health care in Dominica. Project activities include: (1) restoring health services and emergency medical care in affected areas; (2) improving access to safe water sanitation and hygiene in affected health centres and communities; and (3) strengthening disease surveillance and vector control.

The expected outcomes for this project include: (1) improved access to health services and emergency medical care in affected areas; (2) increased access to safe water sanitation and hygiene in affected health centres and communities; and (3) reduced incidence of water-borne diseases. The expected ultimate outcome is lives saved suffering alleviated and human dignity maintained in countries experiencing humanitarian crises or acute food insecurity.