'Haiyan typhoon survivors at risk of fatal diseases'

The survivors of Haiyan typhoon are now at risk of contracting various diseases including cholera, hepatitis, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), fever and various other post-disaster ailments.

1Malaysia Putera Club (KP1M) volunteer medical officer Dr Zikri Zainal, said death could befall the survivors if necessary treatments were not rendered immediately.

“The survivors are currently ignorant of the risks they're facing in contracting these diseases. Death and sickness can, however, be prevented if they are more aware and know the right health steps to take,” said Dr Zikri who often followed the club’s humanitarian missions.

Meanwhile, KP1M is planning to make the Burauen district in the Leyte province as a major redevelopment site following the typhoon tragedy.

President Datuk Abdul Azeez Abdul Rahim said, the suggestion will be brought to the attention of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak immediately for approval.

“After witnessing an almost total destruction of the area, we plan to make the area a main site for aid distribution channel.

“We call upon other countries to mimic the club’s efforts and extend help the same way,” he told newsmen here today.

Burauen was one of the worst hit areas with more than 12,000 families losing their homes there.

More to come