In Venezuela, the official death toll from last month’s devastating twin earthquakes has topped 3,800 — and is expected to soar, as tens of thousands of people remain unaccounted for. Public health officials warn survivors of the earthquakes now face outbreaks of disease, along with difficulty accessing clean water, sanitation and medical care. Some 16,000 people were left without shelter after the earthquakes flattened their homes; they’ve since been forced to live in overcrowded tent encampments. This is Pan American Health ​Organization Director Jarbas Barbosa.

Dr. Jarbas Barbosa da Silva Jr.: “In the coming weeks, the greatest health risks may stem not only from injuries caused by the earthquakes, but also from disruptions to health services, overcrowded conditions, deficiencies in water and sanitation, and reduced access to vaccination and routine care.”