Haiti Prepares for the Pandemic
The health system in Haiti leaves most Haitians unprotected, since the necessary resources have not been allocated to institutions and hospitals that lack the means to combat the emerging pandemic there. For decades, brain drain has drained Haiti of its medical staff, who have emigrated for more stable jobs, better pay, and better working conditions.
For decades, brain drain has deprived Haiti of its medical staff, who have emigrated for more stable jobs, better pay, and better working conditions. As a result, the country depends too heavily on international cooperation, which makes it particularly vulnerable during health crises. The recent cholera epidemic, introduced by UN peacekeeping personnel, illustrates the dangers posed by a deadly disease once it enters the country. Until it was brought under control in 2019, nearly 10,000 people died and 100,000 people were infected.
Haiti has lagged behind other countries in the region in terms of the number of COVID-19 cases and fatalities, but major challenges are just around the corner. Innovative prevention strategies, such as the street art shown in the photo, are important but will not be enough once the pandemic develops in Haiti, as it has throughout the Americas.