The death toll from the twin earthquakes in Venezuela last month has risen to 3,889, according to government reports on July 9, 2026. The earthquakes, which struck the northern coast, have also resulted in over 16,740 injuries and 17,907 people displaced.
Health Risks Following the Earthquake
Regional health agencies, including the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), have raised concerns about a growing risk of disease among the displaced population. The organization's director, Jarbas Barbosa, stated that limited access to clean water and healthcare services could lead to serious health issues in the coming weeks.
“In the coming weeks, the greatest health risks may stem not only from injuries caused by the earthquakes, but also from disruptions to health services, overcrowded conditions, deficiencies in water and sanitation and reduced access to vaccination and routine healthcare,” Barbosa noted.
Urgent Need for Humanitarian Aid
The United Nations has launched a humanitarian appeal for approximately $300 million to assist 1.3 million people in urgent need of aid. Tom Fletcher, the UN relief chief, emphasized the importance of addressing long-term health needs, stating, “So, they’re not turning up with just the fractures now, they’re turning up with those longer-term health needs.”
