Emergency health supplies send to Ambae

The Ministry of Health (MOH) has sent emergency health and nutrition supplies to Ambae to support communities affected by the increased volcanic activity.

The supplies were transported yesterday with two officers who will support the provincial health response. They are Edina Tavoa, midwife from Vanuatu National Hospital, and Yann Johnny, Environmental Health Officer.

The emergency supplies, provided with support from UNICEF and funding from the Government of New Zealand, include essential items to support maternal, newborn and child health as well as critical nutrition interventions.

Among the items delivered are newborn care kits for premature and underweight babies, zinc tablets for diarrheal management, nutrition screening tools such as mid-upper arm circumference tapes, rehydration solutions for severely malnourished children with diarrhea, ready-to-use therapeutic food, and Vitamin A supplements for young children. A neonatal newborn simulation training kit was also provided to strengthen clinical skills for maternal and newborn care.

These supplies will help health workers continue delivering lifesaving services to mothers, babies and vulnerable children as communities face difficult conditions following the volcanic activity.

Director of Policy, Planning and Corporate Services at the MOH, Samuel Posikai Tapo, said: “Following the eruptions of Manaro Voui, the Ministry of Health has mobilised quickly to ensure essential health services continue for the people of Ambae.

“Our priority is to support frontline health workers and ensure that mothers, newborns and children continue to receive critical care despite the challenges. We are grateful for the strong support of our partners, particularly UNICEF, in helping us respond effectively during this emergency.”

Midwife Tavoa highlighted the urgent health needs in affected communities.

“During emergencies like this, pregnant women, newborn babies and young children are among the most vulnerable. Access to safe deliveries, newborn care, and treatment for illnesses such as diarrhea becomes more challenging when communities are disrupted by volcanic activity. These supplies will help health workers on the island continue providing essential care and support to families during a very difficult time,” she said.

Chief of the Vanuatu Field Office for UNICEF Pacific, Eric Durpaire, reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to supporting the Government of Vanuatu during emergencies.

“UNICEF has worked alongside the Government of Vanuatu for many years to strengthen health and nutrition services for children and families. In times of crisis, such as the eruptions on Ambae, this long-standing partnership allows us to respond quickly with life-saving supplies and technical support. Our experience responding to emergencies across the Pacific enables us to work hand-in-hand with the Ministry of Health to ensure that children and mothers continue to receive the care they need,” he said.

Communities on Ambae continue to face significant challenges as a result of the volcanic activity, including limited access to safe water and food supplies. MOH assured it is working closely with national and international partners to monitor the situation and ensure continued support for affected populations.

Communities are encouraged to continue following health and safety advice issued by local authorities while response efforts remain ongoing.