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The Australian Global Health Alliance is deeply concerned for the people of Vanuatu following the devastating earthquake and aftershocks that have left thousands, including nearly 40,000 children [1] in urgent need of support.
On Tuesday, December 17, a powerful 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck west of Port Vila, the capital, triggering 14 aftershocks, the strongest reaching 5.5 magnitude. The disaster has caused widespread power outages and disrupted communication with reports confirming at least 14 fatalities and over 200 injuries. [2]
Critical infrastructure in Vanuatu has been severely impacted. Two major reservoirs supplying water to the capital were completely decimated, raising serious concerns about water availability.[3]
Extensive damage to buildings in and around Port Vila, including hospitals, has placed immense pressure on the healthcare system. Vila Central Hospital, the capital’s main medical facility, was severely damaged, forcing patients to be relocated to a military camp. [4] Healthcare services, that were already strained before the earthquake are now overwhelmed, with medical staff working tirelessly to treat the injured.
For a nation of 330,000 people, the scale of destruction is overwhelming. Vanuatu urgently needs comprehensive support beyond local and national capabilities.
We commend the Australian Government’s swift response, including the $2 million immediate response package,[5] and the additional $5 million [6] practical humanitarian assistance that has deployed urban search and rescue teams, as well as emergency medical care.
The Australian global health community stands with Vanuatu and will continue to advocate for meaningful action on climate change and health and in the meantime do all we can to support them during this difficult time.
[1] https://www.unicef.org.au/media-release/40-000-children-impacted-by-devastating-earthquake-in-vanuatu
[2] https://www.sciencemediacentre.co.nz/2024/12/17/large-earthquake-strikes-vanuatu-expert-reaction/
[3] https://apnews.com/article/vanuatu-earthquake-pacific-ocean-port-vila-magnitude-85f483b151f928cc25175038c33fb6d1
[4] https://edition.cnn.com/2024/12/18/world/vanuatu-earthquake-search-water-intl-hnk/index.html
[5] https://www.minister.defence.gov.au/media-releases/2024-12-18/update-australias-response-vanuatu-earthquake
[6] https://www.foreignminister.gov.au/minister/penny-wong/media-release/additional-assistance-response-vanuatu-earthquake
