Venezuela was already struggling before two back-to-back earthquakes hit 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 hospitals, which are now overwhelmed with patients.

Earthquakes Exacerbate Existing Problems

Dr. Huníades Urbina-Medina, a doctor at Dr. José Manuel de Los Ríos Children’s Hospital in Caracas, said that the hospital’s intensive care unit can only treat four children at a time due to a lack of personnel, medicines, and equipment. 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 over 5,000 injuries from the earthquakes, but the true count may be much higher. The US Geological Survey has said that there is a high chance that the earthquakes have killed tens of thousands of people.

Rescue Efforts Continue

Rescue workers are still searching for survivors, but the chances of finding anyone alive are dwindling. The smell of death lingers in the streets, and many families are waiting anxiously for news of their loved ones. Mirella Herrera, whose son, his wife, and their children are missing, said that she is still holding onto hope, despite the passing of time.

The earthquakes have also caused significant damage to the country’s infrastructure, with many buildings destroyed or severely damaged. The government has extended school closures, and preliminary information suggests that 432 schools in Caracas alone have been damaged.

Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.