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http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/rwb.nsf/db900SID/MUMA-7ZP8NS?OpenDocument
Solomon Islands Earthquake Situation Report 3
Source: World Health Organization (WHO)
Date: 13 Jan 2010
GENERAL INFORMATION
On the morning of 4 January 2010, two earthquakes—magnitude 6.5 and 7.2, with
epicentres West South West of the island of Honiara—struck the Solomon Islands
within an hour of each other. The earthquakes generated a tsunami that hit the
southern and northern coast of the islands of Rendova and Tetepare. The large wave
and landslides damaged houses and boats on both islands.
One day later (5 January), an aftershock measured at magnitude 6.9 struck, damaging
houses around the Marovo lagoon.
HEALTH IMPACT
Around 4 995 people were living in affected areas. Landslides have occurred and have
afftected the water supplies in the areas of Sombu, Hopongo, Havila, Mbaniata,
Retavo, Rano, Hosuzo, Vanikua, and Bangopiqo.
Identified immediate needs include:
- Clean food
- Safe water
- Sanitation
- Hazard analysis
- Provision of health services to affected people
Other current health issues noted in the last situation report are:
- Diarrhoea cases noted in Hopongo, Havila, and Mbaniata
- Red eye cases noted in Rano, Mbaniata, Retavo, Ella Beach, Hosuzo, Vanikua, and
Bangopipo
- Cases of trauma, cough, and colds and other flu-like symptoms were noted in all
affected villages.
- No specific numbers of affected individuals are currently available.
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Casualties
No deaths or serious injuries have been reported as of 12 January 2010.
RESPONSE
Government Response
Assessment results are coming in. The Solomon Islands Government is preparing
recovery plans for immediate implementation. The Government continues to
coordinate with non-governmental and international partners for response efforts.
International Response
International partners have provided non-food items, water, safe water supplies,
sanitation and hygiene items, and assessment support. Concerned governments have
also sent financial aid. Several organizations are taking care of health education and
trauma counseling.
WHO Response
WHO continues to coordinate with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services in the
Solomon Islands for the provision of additional aid and services that may be needed.
WHO has provided a surveillance tool for early identification and management of
impending health crises. WHO staff members are also participating in the assessment
of the daily situation and the prophylactic measures that have been put in place.
Health promotion materials and hygiene items have been distributed. WHO is
assisting the Ministry of Health and Medical Services in the coordination of the health
response between the health teams from Gizo and Munda.
Sources
National Disaster Council Situation Report No. 6, 11 January 2010
For further information please contact:
WHO Solomon Islands
Dr William Adu-Krow
Country Liaison Officer
Tel : (677) 23406
Fax: (677) 21344
Email: adukroww@wpro.who.int
WHO Regional Office
Dr Arturo Pesigan
Tel: (632) 528 9810
Fax: (632) 528 9072
Email: pesigana@wpro.who.int