Disaster response team readied for hurricane season

With the advent of the hurricane season, PAHO's Disaster Response Team, a multidisciplinary group of health professionals, is on standby. The team members, stationed in a number of Caribbean countries, have expertise in a variety of areas: epidemiology, nursing, nutrition, sanitary engineering, medical supplies, health facilities and vector control. Coming together following large-scale disasters, the Team evaluates the impact of the disaster on the health sector, provides an assessment of health needs, and coordinates with other agencies in determining the need for international assistance. The PAHO Disaster Response Team, which was mobilized following Hurricanes Gilbert and Hugo, will be able to use satellite communications equipment which has been prepositioned in Barbados.

For more information on the Disaster Response Team contact Dr. Jean Luc Poncelet, Emergency Preparedness Adviser, PAHO, P.O. Box 508, Bridgetown, Barbados.