La Soufrière Volcano Eruption

CARPHA Provides Support to Saint Vincent During La Soufrière Volcanic Disaster

Following the eruption of the volcano on April 9^th 2021, CARPHA is providing support in multiple ways:

The development of Guidance on Respiratory Protection during a Volcanic Eruption
The development of Guidance on Solid Waste Management during a Volcanic Eruption
The development of COVID-19 protocols and infographics for evacuees and deployment during evacuation, approved at the 27^th COHSOD meeting
Constant liaison with the Chief Medical Officer in Saint Vincent
The development of sampling strategy, shelter assignments and other technical support related to the shelter needs, and
The provision of laboratory testing (clinical and environmental samples)

CARPHA has joined the support and relief efforts that are being coordinated by the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) who activated the regional response mechanism and deployed multisectoral rapid response teams.

CARPHA will continue to provide technical support in the area of public health. To prevent the spread of disease surveillance and epidemiological response has been initiated. Technical assistance for environmental health and food and water safety will also be provided.

CARPHA will develop and share messages on personal protection and safety measures during volcanic eruptions, as well as vaccination messages to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

CARPHA remains committed to Healthy People, Healthy Spaces and a Healthy Caribbean.