Venezuela was already facing significant challenges before two back-to-back earthquakes struck the country, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The effects of over a decade of government mismanagement and economic sanctions are evident in the country’s healthcare system, particularly at Dr. José Manuel de Los Ríos Children’s Hospital in Caracas.

Overwhelmed Hospitals

Dr. Huníades Urbina-Medina, who works at the hospital, stated that they can only treat four children at a time in the intensive care unit due to a lack of personnel, medicines, and mechanical ventilators. The hospital has treated roughly 100 children since the earthquakes, but many more are in need of medical attention.

The Venezuelan government has reported over 1,700 deaths and more than 5,000 injuries from the earthquakes. However, the true extent of the damage and loss of life may never be known due to the government’s history of not releasing official death tolls in similar tragedies.

Rescue Efforts

Rescue efforts are ongoing, with Ecuadorian rescuers pulling a 12-year-old boy alive from the rubble in La Guaira state. However, hopes of finding more survivors are dwindling as the ‘golden window’ for survival after an earthquake has passed.

The US Geological Survey has warned that there is a high chance that the earthquakes have killed tens of thousands of people. The government has extended school closures, and many schools are being used as temporary shelters for the displaced.

The earthquakes have also highlighted the country’s inadequate infrastructure, with many buildings collapsing due to poor construction. The government has been criticized for its handling of the crisis, with many blaming the socialist government and US economic sanctions for the country’s struggles.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.