Support for Named Disaster: 2010 /2011 Haiti Cholera Epidemic available at American Refugee Committee International - 2010 Haiti Earthquake (MEDICAL CLINIC/FIELD HOSPITAL/SHELTER & MEDICAL SUPPLES/REFUGEE CAMP/FOOD DISTRIBUTION)

Working to Stop Cholera in Haiti
American Refugee Committee Staff are working around the clock to prevent an outbreak of the disease in the areas where we work.

Cholera has broken out in central Haiti.

There are 3,300 reported cases of the disease, and more than 250 people have died already. Cholera is spread through contaminated water, and experts expect the number of cases will increase.

Since the earthquake happened in January, the American Refugee Committee has been concerned about the possibility of a cholera outbreak. So, for months our team has been conducting campaigns to promote safe hygiene practices and to prevent disease outbreaks in the four main camps where we’re working.

Now that cholera has surfaced elsewhere in the country, we’ve stepped up our efforts and are working around the clock to make sure the disease does not spread into the camps:

* We’re distributing soap to thousands of families

* Via megaphones and tent-to-tent visits, we’re telling people how to protect themselves from cholera

* We’re making sure everyone has water purification tablets to prevent illness from contaminated water

* And, we’re setting up cholera treatment units to treat people who may contract the disease

Most people who contract cholera – if they receive enough fluid, nutrients and the appropriate care – can recover. That’s why it’s so important that we’re prepared.

Crowded living conditions and poor sanitation can lead to a rapid spread of the disease. With 1.3 million people living in camps in Haiti, the population is extremely vulnerable. We’re working closely with the Haitian people, the government and other organizations to stop cholera from spreading any further.

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