In the aftermath of the devastating earthquake in Haiti, APHL has offered assistance through the US Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
As we have seen from the rending images flickering across our televisions and monitors, the immediate needs are for search and rescue, medical care and basic necessities: food, water and shelter. The National Disaster Medical System, the US agency charged with medical response to peacetime disasters, has been deployed, as have 300 members of the Public Health Service and public health experts from CDC. Aid organizations such as the Red Cross, Save the Children and Partners in Health have set up relief sites.
APHL has a longstanding relationship with Haiti, having helped to rebuild the country’s laboratory system after Hurricane Mitch in 1998. Its Global Health Program provides technical assistance and training to Haiti’s laboratories under the PEPFAR program. Thankfully, the two consultants who support this effort are accounted for and safe.
We have learned that the national laboratory (Laboratoire National de Santé Publique) in Port-au-Prince escaped destruction. With this piece of good news, there is at least one location where laboratory testing services can be provided.
Our hearts go out to the people of Haiti, and we have heard from our members that there is a desire to help. Right now, we can give money. The Washington Post website lists organizations that are providing assistance. You can donate through the links on its site or go to the sites linked above. You can also text “Haiti” to 90999 to give a $10 donation to the Red Cross (charges will appear on your cell phone bill).
The Global Health Program is collecting names of laboratory scientists who could provide in-country technical assistance, should these services be requested. If you would be interested in participating, please send your name, bio and contact information to globalhealth@aphl.org.
Sincerely,
Scott Becker