The 7.3 magnitude earthquake that struck Venezuela’s coastal region on Tuesday has left a trail of physical and psychological trauma. British charity workers from the NGO 'Medecins Sans Frontieres' are on the ground treating survivors for everything from panic attacks to compound fractures.
The geological event, which occurred at a depth of 76 kilometres, was the strongest to hit the country in over a century. In a field hospital set up in Cumaná, Dr. Helena Vance reports that the most common injuries are crush-related: broken limbs, spinal trauma, and lacerations.
But the mental toll is equally severe. 'We are seeing a significant number of patients presenting with acute stress reactions,' says Dr. James Whitfield, a British volunteer surgeon.
'The constant aftershocks, which have now reached 4.5 magnitude, are rekindling fear every hour.' The charity has treated over 300 patients since the quake, with more arriving each day.
The situation is compounded by Venezuela’s fragile infrastructure; power outages and damaged roads are hampering relief efforts. 'Every fracture we treat is a reminder of the geology beneath our feet,' notes Dr. Whitfield.
'But it is the panic attacks that speak to the fragility of the human psyche.' The charity has called for more international aid, as local hospitals are overwhelmed. As of now, the death toll stands at 12, but that number is expected to rise as rescue teams reach remote villages.
For survivors, the road to recovery will be long, both physically and mentally.
