Gunfire erupted once again in downtown Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on Tuesday, causing a halt in urgently needed care for thousands of Haitians. The ongoing gang violence has led to the closure of 18 hospitals and a shortage of medical supplies, with the country's main seaport and international airport remaining closed.
Aid workers from The Alliance for International Medical Action have highlighted the challenging situation, affecting their daily movement in the capital. The violence has displaced around 17,000 people, forcing them to seek shelter in overcrowded and inadequate conditions.
Medical coordinator Antoine Maillard expressed concerns about the worsening health crisis, citing difficulties in accessing basic medications like antibiotics and antidiarrheals due to the closure of suppliers. The limited available medication has seen a significant increase in prices, making it unaffordable for many Haitians.
The impact of the violence is evident in the story of Denise Duval, a 65-year-old woman with health issues who struggles to afford medication. She is caring for her grandchildren while their mother is away working in the Dominican Republic, facing financial challenges to support the family's needs.
Despite a slight decrease in gang violence in some areas following attacks on government infrastructure, the situation remains dire. Key roads are impassable, hindering access to essential services for individuals like Nadine Prosper, who lost her leg in the 2010 earthquake and now faces challenges in obtaining necessary medication.
Haiti's healthcare system is in disarray, with the closure of major hospitals and limited access to medical facilities. Dr. Priscille Cupidon of Doctors Without Borders described the situation as resembling a war, with deepening political and economic crises exacerbating the healthcare challenges.
Gangs control a significant portion of Port-au-Prince, impacting the entire population. The violence prompted Prime Minister Ariel Henry to announce his resignation, pending the formation of a transitional presidential council.
The ongoing violence and instability in Haiti continue to pose significant obstacles to providing essential medical care and aid to those in need.
