Infectious disease risks in earthquake-hit Venezuela are expected to emerge in stages, with access to clean water being critical to preventing outbreaks, a Colombian infectious disease expert said in an interview with China Media Group (CMG).
Dr. Carlos Arturo Alvarez, a leading infectious disease specialist with the National University of Colombia, said respiratory infections are likely to increase in the days immediately following the disaster.
"In the first few days, we will see an increase in respiratory infection cases, and there may also be virus infections transmitted orally, all linked to the shortage of clean water. In the weeks ahead, due to insufficient protective measures, cases of dengue fever and other viral diseases may also rise," he said.
Alvarez stressed that ensuring access to clean water is an urgent priority in affected areas, saying it is essential not only for hydration but also for curbing the spread of infectious diseases.
"After an earthquake, restoring the power supply is important. But to prevent the spread of diseases, it is equally vital to ensure that people have access to clean water, because it is not only essential for hydration, but, more importantly, it can effectively prevent the spread of infectious diseases," said the expert.
Alvarez also said that if Venezuela's healthcare system comes under severe pressure, Colombia could provide support as part of a coordinated response.
"If Venezuela's healthcare system becomes overwhelmed, Colombia, as one of its neighboring countries, may receive a considerable number of patients with chronic diseases, as well as some acute cases triggered by special circumstances," he said.
The death toll from the two powerful earthquakes that struck the country a week ago rose to 1,943, said Venezuelan National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez Tuesday. Another 10,571 people were left injured, he added.
The quakes, measuring magnitude 7.2 and 7.5, hit central Venezuela less than a minute apart on June 24, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
Colombian expert warns of potential infectious disease risks after Venezuela earthquakes
