Situation Report No.1 • Philippines/TS Washi (Sendong)
A. Cluster Details
1. Lead Organization:
Department of Health/World Health Organization
2. Cluster Website:
B. Reporting Period
1. Report Number: 1
2. Report Date: 19 December 2011
3. Time Period Covered: 18 -19 December 2011
C. Humanitarian Needs
Description of total beneficiary needs, including needs the cluster is currently addressing
As of 6pm today, the total population affected by Tropical Storm Washi (Sendong) was 34,298 families (167,460 persons) in 196 barangays across 8 cities and 25 municipalities in 13 provinces of 7 regions. 17,461 families (88,053 persons) sought refuge in 48 ECs which are mostly (92%) located in CDO and Iligan (NDRRMC Sitrep No. 10). The death toll has risen to 662 while 82 persons remain missing. An undetermined number of families whose homes were completely damaged have chosen to stay with friends and relatives. In Cagayan de Oro City (CDO), 5 barangay health centers which also serve as 24/7 lying-in clinics were rendered non functional by TS Sendong.
The general lack of water in functioning health facilities negatively affected the provision of essential public health services, specifically minor surgeries in the management of wounds which is the most common morbidity. In Iligan city, 14 evacuation centers (EC) were visited. The lack of safe water for drinking and washing as well as sanitary facilities increase the risks for waterborne disease and some cases of diarrhea are already being noted in the ECs and affected communities. Aside from wounds, the most common morbidities include upper respiratory infection and dermatologic problems. Those who have lost or missing family members and relatives or have lost their belongings will need psychosocial support services.
D. Humanitarian Response
Description of humanitarian activities by cluster partners serving the needs listed above
An NDRRMC-HCT joint assessment of affected areas in Iligan and CDO was carried out. Several cluster members led by the Department of Health (DOH) participated (UNFPA, IOM, UNICEF, MSF, WHO, HOM, Save the Children, CFSI). 14 of the 29 affected barangays in CDO were assessed while 15 ECs in Iligan city were visited. The DOH, thru its regional offices, has dispatched medical teams to ECs in affected communities and has augmented the medicines and supplies of local health facilities. Cluster agencies are in various stages of planning and resource mobilization for their response activities. UNFPA has brought 150 clean delivery kits and 175 hygiene kits for distribution to pregnant and lactating women. The WHO will provide support to the DOH to establish an early warning system for communicable and non communicable diseases.
E. Gaps & Constraints
Description of the unmet needs of both beneficiaries and cluster partners
Prevention of diarrhea and other diseases like leptospirosis need to be more actively promoted in the ECs and in areas that remain muddy and uncleaned of debris due to lack of water. Local health workers need support to be able to provide psychosocial services to those severely affected by the storm. Damaged health facilities need to be restored quickly to their functional state. Cluster agencies need funding to support health interventions for the affected populations.
Focal Point Contact Details:
Dr Ma. Nerissa Dominguez
National Professional Officer
Emerging Disease Surveillance and Response Unit