The death toll from twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela last month has climbed to 3,889, authorities announced Thursday, as regional health agencies issued stark warnings about the growing risk of disease outbreaks among survivors.

These devastating tremors, which hit Venezuela’s northern coast, have left a trail of destruction, displacing thousands and overwhelming already strained infrastructure. The situation in the affected areas has prompted international concern regarding the well-being of those impacted.

Lawmaker Jorge Rodrigues stated that in addition to the fatalities, at least 16,740 people were injured and 17,907 residents have been displaced from their homes. Many of these individuals are now living in improvised camps, raising immediate public health concerns.

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has highlighted the precarious conditions faced by the displaced, particularly those in makeshift shelters. Limited access to clean water, sanitation deficiencies, and crowded living situations significantly increase the potential for the spread of infectious diseases.

PAHO Director Jarbas Barbosa emphasized that the health risks in the coming weeks extend beyond earthquake-related injuries. He pointed to disruptions in essential health services, overcrowded shelters, and reduced access to routine healthcare and vaccinations as major contributing factors to a potential health crisis. The organization is actively collaborating with Venezuela's Ministry of Health to enhance vaccine accessibility and to monitor for any signs of respiratory or digestive illnesses, especially within the temporary shelters.

In response to the escalating humanitarian crisis, the United Nations has launched an appeal for approximately $300 million. This funding is intended to assist an estimated 1.3 million people who are in urgent need of humanitarian aid across Venezuela. The focus is on providing immediate relief and supporting long-term recovery efforts.

PAHO is also advocating for the swift disbursement of the remaining $15 million in requested emergency aid. This funding is crucial for repairing damaged healthcare facilities and maintaining basic sanitation standards in the camps for displaced persons, aiming to avert a widespread health emergency.

The ongoing situation underscores the multifaceted challenges faced by Venezuela in the aftermath of the earthquakes, with the specter of a public health crisis adding another layer of urgency to the relief and recovery operations.