Tsunami destruction raises fears of disease, hunger in Solomon Islands

Published: 2007-04-04

SYDNEY, Australia (CNS) -- The earthquake and tsunami that struck the Solomon Islands have made many fearful of widespread disease and hunger among the coastal communities sheltered on high ground. Fresh-water tanks have spoiled, increasing the risk of water-borne diseases that could spread among the thousands of people who lost their homes in the April 2 tsunami. The Associated Press reported April 4 that aid workers already had reported cases of diarrhea, which they said could be a sign of more diseases to come. A series of violent aftershocks continued to rock the region after the tsunami, which was triggered by a magnitude 8.1 underwater earthquake. At least 28 people were killed in the natural disasters. The airport in the town of Gizo was not expected to reopen until April 9. However, international aid organizations mobilized medicine, food, shelter, water cans and bottled water to be sent to Gizo. Caritas Australia launched an appeal for funds to assist the humanitarian crisis and reconstruction work. Catholic Relief Services, the U.S. bishops' international relief and development agency, said that it would commit an initial $100,000 for emergency relief.

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