WHO urges Cape Verde to boost disease prevention after deadly floods

PRAIA, Aug. 23 (Xinhua) -- The World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday urged Cape Verde to step up disease prevention following deadly floods triggered by an Aug. 11 storm on the island of Sao Vicente that killed nine people.

WHO Representative in Cape Verde Ann Lindstrand warned of possible outbreaks of diarrheal, respiratory, and mosquito-borne diseases, citing risks linked to water shortages, sanitation problems, and population displacement.

"Given the current conditions, we must prepare for possible epidemics," she said during a mission to the island led by Patricia Portela de Souza, United Nations resident coordinator in Cape Verde.

Lindstrand said Cape Verde's health system has an emergency response plan developed with WHO support, covering disease surveillance, deployment of medical staff, and provision of diagnostic equipment. Cholera testing kits were being delivered, she noted, but stressed that prevention remains vital.

"The risks exist, but people can protect themselves by avoiding street food, not swimming in the sea, and keeping homes and streets clean," she added.

The resident coordinator reaffirmed the UN's support for Cape Verde, saying the priority was to help the northern islands return to normal as quickly as possible in health, education, housing, and economic activity.

Meanwhile, the Cape Verdean government announced a joint plan with civil society to provide swift support to families and businesses on Sao Vicente, including emergency aid, subsidized loans, and non-repayable funds from national emergency reserves. ■