GENERAL INFORMATION
Following an 8.0 magnitude undersea earthquake south of the main Samoan Island chain on 29 September 2009, a tsunami struck Samoa. Villages, houses, buildings, and communication lines were damaged or destroyed as waves surged inland.
Damage to Infrastructure
Surging seawater caused widespread damage to houses and infrastructure. Among the worst-affected villages were Lalomanu and Poutasi.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Samoa reports that major roads on Upolu Island have not been heavily damaged.
HEALTH IMPACT
Casualties
Death, injured, missing, and affected population statistics are inconsistent. As of 2 October, casualties were listed as 125 dead and 142 injured. Assessment is still being done.
RESPONSE
Government Response
The government has declared a State of Disaster and appealed for international aid from the United Nations (UN) and foreign missions. The Prime Minister has given his approval for the UN to proceed with implementing support.
MOH Response
Samoa’s Ministry of Health has dispatched medical teams to remote villages to provide medical services for people who are injured and without transport.
International Response
Medical teams from neighbouring countries as well as from other health agencies are working with the Samoan government in relief efforts. Relief supplies and financial aid from neighbouring countries have also been sent.
UN agencies and other international partners have sent personnel and supplies to aid in both assessment and relief efforts. International agencies have also provided financial aid.
WHO Response
The WHO is in communication with the Ministry of Health and medical staff to coordinate the provision of necessary supplies and technical support. A disaster management expert has been deployed to Samoa. WHO has also provided transportation support for injured patients for medical care.
Sources
WHO Samoa
Mr Steven Mecartney
Programme Management Officer
Kevin Vang
APCEDI Coordinator
Radio New Zealand International
http://www.rnzi.com/pages/news.php?op=read&id=49480
South China Morning Post
http://www.scmp.com/
For further information please contact:
WHO Samoa
Mr Steven Mecartney
Programme Management Officer
Fax: (685) 23-765
Email:
WHO Regional Office
Dr Arturo Pesigan
Tel: (632) 528 9810
Fax: (632) 528 9072
Email: