Safe water, sanitation priorities for Kwakwani, Lamp Island
REGION 10 (Upper Demerara/ Upper Berbice) has been hit by flooding, too, with Kwakwani Waterfront and Lamp Island under varying levels of water. Regional Chairman Mortimer Mingo told the Guyana Chronicle that, currently, the top priorities are a supply of safe drinking water and sanitation.
“We are doing what we can. The Regional Health Department visited the area during an outreach on Wednesday and they made their assessment,” he said.
Mr. Mingo said the Regional Health Officer, Dr. Pansy Armstrong led a medical team to provide support in the affected area and water purifiers and other medical supplies were distributed to those affected.
He said all efforts are being taken to ensure that the residents are supported as the situation changes.
Other reports said diarrhoea and other illnesses at Kwakwani do not indicate any unusual health impact.
The Ministry of Health, in a statement, said it continues to maintain standby staff if the need arises for affected areas in Region 10, as well, and additional medical supplies are ready to be sent.
“The Ministry of Health has already begun to add to its stock of bleach and other disinfectant supplies. The situation on the ground appears stable but the health workers recognise the need for continued vigilance,” the statement said.
Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud is expected to lead another group to Kwakwani today as the relief effort there continues.