GREAT BAY--Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor, VSA, Claret Connor has confirmed that all St. Maarten patients currently receiving medical treatment in Colombia have been accounted for and are safe following the powerful earthquake that struck the country on Monday morning, August 10.
Immediately after reports of the earthquake emerged, Connor contacted Social & Health Insurances, SZV, requesting confirmation of the welfare of St. Maarten patients receiving care in Colombia.
SZV subsequently informed the Minister that contact had been established with the patients as well as the respective medical institutions where they are receiving treatment. Based on the information received, all St. Maarten patients have been accounted for and are safe.
The confirmation comes as Colombia deals with the aftermath of a magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck at approximately 7:34am local time near San José del Palmar in the western department of Chocó. The U.S. Geological Survey placed the quake at a depth of approximately 107 kilometres. As of early Monday afternoon, Reuters reported that at least 77 people had been killed, with buildings collapsing in several cities and rescue operations continuing for people trapped beneath rubble.
Risaralda, where the city of Pereira is located, had reported the highest number of fatalities at that stage. Significant damage was also reported in Cali, Manizales, Quibdó and other areas. Colombia's civil aviation authority suspended flights at six regional airports while inspections were conducted for possible structural damage. Authorities have also warned residents to remain alert for aftershocks.
The Colombian Geological Service described the earthquake as the highest-magnitude quake recorded in the country in the past decade. At least two aftershocks, measuring magnitude 2.8 and 4.8, had been recorded following the initial earthquake.
Connor expressed appreciation to SZV for its swift response and coordination in establishing contact with the patients and their healthcare providers during the emergency.
The Minister acknowledged the concern such a major natural disaster can cause for families in St. Maarten whose relatives are abroad receiving medical care, particularly while information from affected areas is still developing.
Connor also extended wishes of strength to the people of Colombia, particularly the families and communities affected by the loss of life, injuries and destruction.
The Ministry of VSA will remain in close communication with SZV and the medical institutions caring for St. Maarten patients in Colombia and will provide further information should circumstances affecting the patients change.
The situation in Colombia remains fluid, with search and rescue operations continuing and authorities still assessing the full extent of the damage.
