Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Jakarta (Agenzia Fides) - Indonesian health authorities are warning of increased health risks for thousands of people displaced by the volcano eruption in central Java. At least 28 people are now confirmed dead and 90 hospitalized for burns. Local media reported that a three-month-old baby died after experiencing respiratory problems, while at least 26 people are now being treated in hospitals with respiratory problems caused by volcanic dust. According to the World Health Organization, hot ash, gases, rock and magma cause skin and lung burns, asphyxiation, conjunctivitis or corneal abrasion, as well as acute respiratory problems. In the case of ashfall, particularly with fine particles, bronchial asthma and other chronic respiratory conditions can be aggravated in children as well as in adults. As of 27 October, more than 22,000 villagers are staying in 10 government-run shelters in three districts - Magelang, Klaten and Boyolali - outside the 10km danger zone. According to the Red Cross, displaced people are prone to health problems such as upper respiratory infection, coughs and diarrhea. So far, however, they had yet to see widespread cases in 10 of 60 barracks in four districts - Magelang, Klaten and Boyolali and Sleman - housing the displaced. The Health Ministry said it had distributed 50,000 face masks, 4MT of medicines, 6MT of baby food and 200 million rupiah (US$22,000) in cash. Meanwhile, rescue workers began arriving on 27 October on Mentawai islands, where a tsunami triggered by a 7.5-magnitude earthquake the previous day killed 112 people and left at least 109 others missing. It also displaced 250 families, destroyed 179 homes and damaged 300 more. Sixteen tons of aid were airlifted on 27 October, comprising 500 tents, 50 family tents, 500 mats, 80 blankets and 650 boxes of food. (AP) (Agenzia Fides 28/10/2010)
