Pakistan Update Since Earthquake - World Health Organization

Main Category: Aid / Disasters
Article Date: 29 Oct 2008 - 10:00 PDT

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An earthquake in south-western Balochistan Province has killed at least 160 people and displaced another 12 000. The 6.4 magnitude earthquake hit at 5.10am on Wednesday, October 28th, 2008.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is part of a joint mission to assess the two most affected districts of Ziarat and Pishin. A referral hospital has been established at a rural health centre in Ziarat.

WHO is also rushing health supplies, including medicines and equipment for trauma injuries, to the zone. Food insecurity, low vaccination coverage and compromised water and sanitation conditions are major health concerns.

The earthquake occurred 60 km from the city of Quetta in a mountainous region which is thinly populated. About four villages were severely hit. Media source reports that more than 100 dead bodies have been recovered with more being trapped under the debris, many houses made of mud have collapsed and landslides followed the quake. The number of injured people remains unknown. Nevertheless, a senior army official said that the area remains accessible for convoys carrying relief material (BBC).

The Ministry of defense deployed troops and helicopters to the affected location (BBC). The situation is still unclear and more information is expected. The WHO country office is ready and in contact with regional office and headquarters for any assistance be deemed.

-- General information on Pakistan (WHO website)

World Health Organisation
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