Death toll could exceed 100,000 as Plan stresses large-scale, long-term relief effort in Myanmar

May 8, 2008 – Details continue to emerge about the destruction across Myanmar (formerly Burma) after cyclone Nargis struck on May 3, 2008. Nearly one week later, details remain hazy.  The top U.S. diplomat in Myanmar has said the number of dead may exceed 100,000 due to the scarcity of safe food and clean water.

One thing is clear – the need for large-scale, long-term rebuilding will be great. Reports suggest that most rice fields have been destroyed, which will hinder food supplies and livelihoods for thousands.

The aftermath

Schools have been left in ruins. Some of those still standing are being used as temporary shelters since many houses have been completely washed away.

After nearly a week of contaminated water and food supplies, waterborne disease is becoming an issue for the children and families in Myanmar, with children at particular risk.

There continues to be considerable difficulty getting emergency supplies into and around the country due to the destruction of much of the country’s infrastructure and requirement for government permits to access affected areas. Aid is only now beginning to trickle in from the international community.

Plan’s response

Short-term relief is crucial at this time. Plan will provide $300,000 for immediate emergency response to help children and their families in Myanmar. This will include non-food items such as mosquito nets, shelters, saws, axes and hygiene kits, especially for young girls. Medical supplies including anti-diarrhoea, anti-bacterial and anti-malarial drugs, as well as saline drips and basic bandaging and dressings will be distributed to aid in the prevention of water-borne diseases.

Working is partnership with other relief organizations, Plan’s focus will be on helping displaced local children including migrants heading for refuge across the bordering states. Our emphasis will be health, habitat, livelihood and education activities ensuring that children and their families can begin the long, difficult process of rebuilding in the coming days, weeks and months.

Our objective will be to meet both immediate as well as long term needs of children and their families. We will continue to update this site as information becomes available.

You can help!

Plan is accepting donations to help children and families affected by cyclone Nargis. Donations will provide immediate emergency relief to survivors and address recovery needs in the coming days and weeks. Please make a contribution today.