*UPDATE FROM VANUATU* Things are gradually getting back to a 'normal'. At home we have no power or even phone coverage so it is buy food each day and settle early by candlelight and LED lights and use internet and phone when you can get it at work.
We have been reasonably busy with 62 births since the 13th. The hospital had quite a bit of damage but crews have done an amazing job in a week repairing holes, broken windows, roofs that have been damaged, water in and around and stuff everywhere. Paediatrics moved into the nursing school, the medical and surgical ward moved into the area around the new laboratory and the NICU moved into the new conference room (all before the cyclone). Everyone is back in there rightful places again now and we are just getting the issues around gastro and wound infections coming in. So far no rain which is lucky. The communities have been the worst hit of course with huge damage to houses, gardens, trees and all but you know people are very resilient. We knew it was coming therefore preparations could be made in time. The number of deaths are minimal so far for Vanuatu but the injury toll both mental and physical is very high. The landscape looks like a bush fire has been through with the trees and bushes just sticks as all the leaves were blown off. Port Vila town is a mess. Bits of buildings everywhere and it will take ages to have it all put right again, especially with insurance claims. Most hotels and resorts (the larger ones such as Le Lagon, Breakas, Holiday Inn) have closed their doors to make repairs and remain so for up to 3 months in some cases. Thanks for the kind thoughts. At present there are loads of people in and around Port Vila (crazy amount of Aussies) so we wait to see what is needed in the next couple of weeks especially when the initial aid disappears.
Midwives for Vanuatu is gathering donations to give to our midwives on the ground to supply the local community with money to buy whatever is needed. More news as it comes to hand.
