Location: Indonesia - Padang (Sumatra) 

Situation:

On 30 September 2009, at 17.16 local time, an earthquake with the magnitude of 7.9 on the Richter scale, followed by an aftershock of 6.2, struck the west coast of Sumatra. From its base in Jakarta, Doctors of the World (DOW)  immediately rallied to respond to the medical needs. 250,000 people were affected by the disaster.

Activities:

DOW supported the people affected by the disaster by running mobile clinics and bringing aid to those who were suffering from physical  injuries. Four puskesm as (health centres), three of them damaged, were supported in terms of data collection, diffusion of information and the management of the cold chain for vaccination. Pertinent information on natural disasters and mental health was broadcast in partnership with two radio stations. Shelters, tarpaulins, blankets and hygiene kits were distributed to families. Finally, tents were set up in seven health centres and 11 schools. As a result of the project 4,000 medical consultations were carried out. 790 people benefited from psychological support, 2,400 families received shelters and hygiene kits.

Outlook:

This project enabled DOW to capitalise on information and facilitates a better preparation and better response in case of future emergencies. What happened at the end of September 2009 is likely to happen again on the archipelago.