Colombia Floods - UNICEF New York Appeal 2008

Seasonal rains which began on September 15th 2008 have exceeded normal levels and have caused flooding in several parts of Colombia. Some departments experienced the most severe flooding in 40 years. Flooding has severely affected water sources water pipelines wells and latrines which has also had an adverse effect on the infrastructure and functioning capacity of the health sector. UNICEF focuses on the rehabilitation of water supply and sanitation systems to mitigate and prevent the outbreak of infectious diseases with the aim to provide potable water for 10 000 families. Activities include the supply of water filters treatment tanks and materials for latrine construction. Additionally UNICEF distributes hygiene kits oral rehydration salts basic medical supplies micronutrients and mosquito nets and ensures that children teens and pregnant and nursing mothers receive basic healthcare.