In anticipation of the heightened risk of cholera transmission associated with the arrival of Tropical Storm Isaac the governments of Haiti and Dominican Republic are pre-positioning medical teams and supplies. In the Dominican Republic, 22 provinces have declared red alert, while an additional 11 provinces remain at yellow alert. The government of Haiti has advised its institutions and population to take appropriate preparedness measures, and health-related agencies have mobilized teams in Haiti.

PAHO/WHO has activated its Institutional Plan at Level One, with four teams in Haiti and one in the Dominican Republic. PAHO/WHO offices in Haiti and the Dominican Republic have activated their contingency plans and maintain close contact with health partners, United Nations System agencies, and the Health Cluster in Haiti. Additional staff and Regional Response Team members are currently on standby. Health Emergency kits donated by Canada have been pre-positioned at PROMESS.

It is expected that Tropical Storm Isaac will strengthen as it approaches La Hispaniola, causing heavy rainfall. Given the likelihood of flood, preventative measures and response actions should focus on ensuring adequate water sanitation and management, minimizing instances of disease related to poor hygiene, and reducing health risks to evacuees and others affected by the emergency.

Tropical Storm Isaac – PAHO/WHO Situation Report – 23 August 2012

Useful information

• Information on cholera in disaster situations
• Sanitary Guidelines for Camps and Settlements