WHO warns of infectious disease risks after devastating Venezuela earthquakes

Tuesday 30 June 2026 - 18:43

By: Azzat Manal

WHO warns of infectious disease risks after devastating Venezuela earthquakes

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that Venezuela faces an increased risk of infectious disease outbreaks following the powerful earthquakes that struck the country in late June, causing widespread destruction and placing severe pressure on the national healthcare system.

According to WHO officials, dozens of hospitals have been damaged, leaving many medical facilities unable to operate at full capacity while others struggle to cope with a surge in patients. The disruption has significantly reduced access to essential healthcare services at a time when emergency medical assistance is urgently needed.

Health experts caution that weakened healthcare infrastructure and interruptions to vaccination programs could increase the likelihood of outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, diphtheria, and whooping cough. Authorities are also closely monitoring the potential spread of waterborne and mosquito-borne illnesses, including yellow fever, dengue fever, chikungunya, Zika virus, and malaria, particularly in areas where sanitation systems have been affected.

People living in temporary shelters and those displaced by the disaster are considered especially vulnerable. Overcrowded conditions, limited access to clean water, and disrupted sanitation services create an environment where infectious diseases can spread more easily.

The WHO has also highlighted shortages of healthcare workers and medical supplies, making emergency response efforts more challenging. International humanitarian agencies are working with local authorities to provide medical assistance, restore essential health services, and strengthen disease surveillance.

The earthquakes, which struck Venezuela on June 24, caused extensive damage to infrastructure and residential areas. According to official reports, the disaster resulted in significant casualties and thousands of injuries, while emergency teams continue search, rescue, and recovery operations.

Public health specialists emphasize that rapid vaccination campaigns, improved access to clean water, and the restoration of healthcare services will be critical to preventing a secondary health crisis in the aftermath of the earthquakes. International organizations continue to call for coordinated humanitarian support to help the country respond to both the immediate emergency and the longer-term public health challenges.