Vanuatu Faces Health Crisis After Devastating Earthquakes

Efforts intensify to provide clean water and aid as the risk of disease grows for thousands displaced by the disaster.

A 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck Vanuatu on December 17, followed by a 6.1 aftershock, causing widespread destruction and displacement.
At least 16 people have been confirmed dead, with over 200 injured and 1,000 forced to leave their homes, according to relief agencies.
Humanitarian organizations warn of a potential health crisis, as 20,000 people lack access to clean water, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases like diarrhea.
Australia has delivered 9.5 tons of aid, including kitchen supplies, temporary shelters, and other essentials, while hundreds of tourists have been evacuated from the island nation.
The reopening of Port Vila's airport is expected to accelerate relief efforts in the geologically active Pacific nation of 330,000 people.