World Concern reports a cholera epidemic in Haiti

World Concern, a ministry of Shoreline-based CRISTA Ministries, on Fremont Avenue, has had a major presence in Haiti since the earthquake in January of this year. They now report a cholera epidemic on that ravaged island.

A World Concern spokesperson says that "More than 1,500 people have been hospitalized and 138 have died from an outbreak of cholera in the Artibonite Valley region of Haiti."

World Concern staff have been issued guidelines on how to prevent spread of the bacteria which causes cholera with such precautions as frequent hand-washing and how to recognize the disease so it can be controlled quickly.

Director of International Health Programs Dr. Paul Robinson said that if the outbreak spreads, hospitals will be in need of water purification tablets, oral rehydration salts, Gatorade and Pedialyte-type drinks, soap and blankets.

“We are considering strategy options for a massive campaign in the South and Southeast Departments of Haiti, where we have regional offices, in anticipation of a wider spread of the epidemic,” said R. Robinson.

“The risk to life is huge if this spreads into more populated areas, and could lead to significant loss of life” said World Concern President David Eller. “Controlling the outbreak is critical."