As Cyclone Chido recently ravaged Mayotte, leaving behind considerable damage, the island’s inhabitants are now facing multiple health challenges. The natural disaster has resulted in the confirmed deaths of around twenty people, but according to some estimates, the toll could rise, potentially reaching several hundred or even a few thousand victims.
The post-cyclone situation raises crucial questions about the care of the injured, the security of health infrastructures and access to care for the affected population. Jean-François Corty, President of Médecins du Monde in Paris, highlights the complex challenges faced by the Mayotte community after this unprecedented disaster.
The images of the damage caused by the destructive passage of Chido are distressing, testifying to the scale of the tragedy experienced by the inhabitants of the island. With houses destroyed, roads cut off, essential infrastructure damaged… the reconstruction promises to be long and arduous for Mayotte.
Beyond the material consequences, it is the health of the survivors that is now receiving particular attention. The risks of epidemics, the precariousness of hygiene conditions and the lack of access to medical care will be challenges for local authorities and humanitarian organizations present on the ground.
In this period of crisis, the solidarity and mobilization of all will be essential to support the population of Mayotte in its process of resilience and reconstruction. The lessons to be learned from this tragedy must be an opportunity to strengthen preparation for natural disasters and improve emergency management, in order to best protect vulnerable communities from climatic hazards.
In these difficult times, Mayotte can count on the solidarity and mutual aid of the national and international community to overcome the challenges and recover stronger. The time has come for unity and solidarity to rebuild together a better future for all the inhabitants of this Indian Ocean island struck by the violence of nature.