PAHO launches preparedness plans as Hurricane Beryl approach the Windward Islands

Ahead of Hurricane Beryl's impending impact on the Windward Islands, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) initiated comprehensive preparedness plans to safeguard the health and safety of its personnel and respond to the needs of countries in the region. Prior to the system reaching the islands, PAHO’s Crisis Management Team was reactivated to ensure a prompt and effective response.

Following the unfortunate impact on especially the islands of Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the PAHO Incident Management Team was established to respond to the countries which were devastated by Hurricane Beryl.

PAHO is currently working closely with the local Ministries of Health, other partners and organizations to ensure a coordinated and efficient approach to the disaster response.

In coordination with our Public Health Emergencies (PHE) department, some members of the regional response team have been put on standby pending deployment if required, particularly for health facility damage assessment and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH).

"Protecting the health and well-being of the communities in the path of Hurricane Beryl is our highest priority," stated Dr. Amalia Del Riego, PAHO/WHO Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Countries. "Our proactive measures are designed to provide immediate assistance and mitigate the hurricane's impact on public health."

As Hurricane Beryl advances, PAHO remains committed to supporting the affected countries.