According to our information, three pharmacies were completely destroyed, and several others suffered serious damage. While access to medicines and basic care is possible, the authorities fear the development of water-related diseases, such as cholera, typhoid and gastroenteritis. Health professionals on site are alarmed by the worsening health conditions.
In a message published on X, Carine Wolf-Thal, president of the National Order of Pharmacists, expressed her support for the inhabitants of the island: “ As terrible images reach us, I wish to provide all my support to the inhabitants of Mayotte facing the most violent cyclone in the region in a century. I am thinking particularly of our pharmacist sisters and brothers. »
An escalating health risk
Drinking water is lacking in a large part of the island. A significant part of the population is forced to resort to unsecured sources such as wells or rivers. Cholera, which had already appeared on the island between February and July 2024, could well resurface. More than 200 people were then infected. Health authorities also fear greater risks of transmission of dengue or chikungunya linked to persistent heat and the presence of water.
Calls for solidarity and urgent action
Faced with this unprecedented crisis, calls for national and international solidarity are increasing. Several NGOs, as well as response teams, began flocking to the island to provide clean water, medicines and emergency medical equipment. Local authorities are also calling for reinforcements, both for medical care and reconstruction efforts.
At this stage, the priority remains to contain the spread of epidemics and ensure rapid access to care. The situation on Mayotte is extremely worrying, and months of work will be necessary to rebuild the island and reestablish its essential infrastructure.
Health
