(A272) Socioeconomic Impact of “Hurricane Karl” on Health Facilities in Veracruz, Mexico with a Population of 7 Million 600 Thousand in September 2010

Abstract

Socioeconomic impact of “Hurricane Karl” on health facilities in Veracruz, Mexico with a population of 7 million 600 thousand in September 2010 Summary Hurricane Karl, thirteenth tropical cyclone of the season in the Atlantic hurricane of 2010, originated in the Caribbean Sea and slammed into the Yucatan Peninsula as a strong tropical storm, to emerge into the Gulf of Mexico where it gradually reorganized to achieve Category 3 (major hurricane) on the Saffir-Simpson scale and hit the east coast of Mexico on September 17th of 2010. Preparations On September 16th, the Federal Government, Federal Electricity Commission, Laguna Verde Nuclear Power Plants, The Ministry of National Defense, The Ministry of Marine Affairs and human elements and materials deployed for relief to the population. The health sector also was prepared to take appropriate measures under the concept of Safe Hospital PAHO / WHO. Impact In the state of Veracruz (more than 7 million 600 thousand habitants), Hurricane Karl arrived around 11:30 am on September 17th to 15 km north of the port of Veracruz reaching a capacity of 195 km per hour. Torrential rains flooded the streets of the phenomenon and avenues of the historic center of the port, the water reached 40 centimeters to 1 meter in height, to the south of the state and surrounding areas reached 2 meters in height. Caused serious damage since its inception in health infrastructure, such as suspension of public services, damage to the distribution system of drinking water, broken windows and flooding of a hospital as well as several units of Family Medicine.