Canada increases support for cholera treatment and prevention

December 3, 2010

Ottawa, Ontario―In response to the epidemic of cholera that now spans across Haiti, the Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of International Cooperation, today announced further support of $2 million for the prevention and treatment of cholera in Haiti. This brings Canada's total response to the epidemic since late October to $7 million.

"Our thoughts continue to go out to the people of Haiti as they battle the cholera epidemic," said Minister Oda. "The Government of Canada's response aims to ensure that those struggling to fight this disease have the necessary supplies and personnel for treatment and prevention efforts. We will continue to monitor the situation on the ground."

According to the Haitian government, more than 1,800 people in Haiti have died from cholera so far.

With today's announcement, Canada is providing $1.3 million to World Vision Canada to help up to 120,000 cholera patients with life-saving treatment in specialized health facilities. This amount also help World Vision Canada provide access to clean drinking water and necessary supplies to families in Port-au-Prince, Les Gonaïves, and along the Dominican Republic border areas.

Canada is providing $700,000 to Médecins du Monde Canada (MdM Canada) to establish rehydration centres and cholera treatment centres and to provide life-saving medical treatment in Cité Soleil. MdM Canada will also provide further training for community-based and hospital health workers on cholera treatment and prevention measures.

The Government of Canada continues to monitor the situation to ensure that the people of Haiti's basic human needs are addressed.


Information:

Justin Broekema
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Cooperation
Telephone: 819-953-6238

Media Relations Office
Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)
Telephone: 819-953-6534
Email: media@acdi-cida.gc.ca