Originally published January 15 2006
Pakistanis will now battle winter weather along with adverse living conditions left by earthquake
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Hypothermia and respiratory infections are now grave threats posed to the people of Pakistan still trying to recover from the disastrous earthquake that rocked their country, as their living conditions and water supplies leave them especially vulnerable at the onset of winter.
The arrival of winter in Pakistan has made life even more difficult for people affected by the earthquake two months ago.
The threat to health is particularly acute, as the combination of severe cold and cramped living conditions is leading to an increase in the risk of hypothermia and respiratory infections.
This cold weather and snow is making it much harder for relief supplies to reach the people who need them.
Shelter, clean water and sanitation continue to be the priority needs for people affected by the earthquake.
Last night, people living high in the mountains affected by the earthquake, survived another night at well below zero in the snow," said the World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr LEE Jong-wook after visiting Balakot and Muzzafarabad.
In her father's face I saw resilience, but as she heads back to the camp that will be her home throughout the winter she needs our help.
Of the US$ 27 million WHO requested from the international community to fund a health response in the affected area, just over half has been received.
WHO needs these funds for a very simple reason: to help people to survive the winter.
Getting health care to people above the snow line is a major challenge.
Basic health units and field hospitals have been established; three hundred thousand children have been vaccinated.
"I sat in on a small class teaching women in the camp the importance of washing your hands and using clean water.
Resources must be used well, to ensure we can support the thousands who are still vulnerable.
The survivors still need shelter from the elements.
The threat of water-borne disease, which can spread quickly through camps, is ever-present.
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