Hurricane Matthew - Addressing Immediate Health Needs in Haiti – Doctors of the World 2016

October 2016 – On October 4 Hurricane Matthew a Category 4 storm tore through the Caribbean causing widespread damage flooding and displacement in Haiti. Hurricane Matthew has resulted in the largest humanitarian crisis in Haiti since the 2010 earthquake. An estimated 1.2 million people have been affected. With GAC’s support Doctors of the World Canada is addressing immediate health needs in areas affected by Hurricane Matthew. Project activities include: (1) providing medical care in health centres and through mobile medical teams; (2) treating cases of cholera and other water and vector borne diseases; (3) epidemic surveillance and the provision of surge medical personnel support (doctors and nurses) in case of new outbreaks; (4) psychosocial support and treatment for victims of sexual and gender based violence; and (5) conducting public health and hygiene awareness campaigns at the community level.

The expected outcome for this project is: increased access to health care for those affected by Hurricane Matthew. The expected ultimate outcome is lives saved suffering alleviated and human dignity maintained in countries experiencing humanitarian crises or acute food insecurity.