(PORTLAND, ORE - May 12, 2008) Medical Teams International is addressing critical health needs in Myanmar this weekend by helping local partners purchase medicines and supplies for families devastated by Cyclone Nargis.
UN officials estimate the death toll from last week's cyclone may reach more than 100,000 in the coming days--especially if critically needed aid fails to arrive soon. Working with partner World Concern in Yangon, Medical Teams International is helping to prevent a second disaster--a looming health crisis caused by the lack of drinking water, poor sanitation, crowded temporary shelters and a devastated health care system.
Medical Teams International medical volunteers and staff are also on standby in various countries, waiting for visa approval to enter Myanmar. Once these approvals are received, these volunteers and staff will provide direct medical care and help local partners expand their efforts to prevent and treat disease.
"There are people in Myanmar who need help now," says Bas Vanderzalm, president of Medical Teams International. "They cannot wait for outside assistance. That's why we have decided to send funds immediately to help our partners on the ground purchase medicines and health supplies to save lives and prevent disease."
Medical Teams International is joining the members of the Global Relief Alliance to provide a long term, integrated response to the disaster. The Alliance will address health, nutrition, sanitation and shelter needs for many of the estimated 1.5 million people affected by the cyclone
"This is one of the world's worst disasters in the past 20 years," adds Vanderzalm. "We're working hard to meet immediate needs but are preparing to be ready so that when the doors open in Myanmar, we will be able to help as many people as we can."
To donate to the Myanmar Cyclone Relief Fund, please call 1-800-959-4325, give online at our secure Web site www.medicalteams.org or mail gifts to PO Box 10, Portland, OR 97207. Donations can also be made at any U.S. Bank branch.
[ Any views expressed in this article are those of the writer and not of Reuters. ]
REFILE - CORRECTING DATE Myanmar Red Cross workers unload rice donated by the World Food Programme in Yangon May 12, 2008. The World Food Programme is delivering emergency food to Myanmar's ...
