YARMOUTH PORT, Mass., May 9 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Cyclone Nargis
has devastated Myanmar and, according to state media, has killed 22,980 and
left 42,119 missing. United Nations humanitarian chief John Holmes said the
death toll could rise "very significantly" as food shortages and disease
set in. Media reports estimate that the death toll may reach more than
100,000 people. IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare - http://www.ifaw.org)
is standing ready with a team to help animals in need, however the visa
process is expected to take a week or more.
"We are monitoring the situation as best we can but it is critical that
IFAW get a team on the ground to assess the effect of the disaster on
animals," said Fred O'Regan, CEO of IFAW. "The sooner the better. When
animals with lowered immune systems crowd together on high ground, in wet
conditions, outbreaks of endemic diseases such as Foot and Mouth become a
grave concern."
IFAW has offered Myanmar veterinarians and resources to help animals
affected by the devastation. Animal rescue, feeding and vaccination
programs, antibiotics, deworming, and wildlife rehabilitation are probable
needs within Myanmar. Because many impoverished families in Myanmar depend
on animals for their livelihood, outbreaks of disease in animal populations
could have devastating effects on both animals and people. Long term human
survival is dependent upon their animals.
As with Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, the Southeast Asia tsunami,
and many other natural disasters around the world, IFAW's ER team is ready
to respond with teams on the ground, to assist regional and national rescue
groups, and in whatever ways possible. We anticipate that there will be a
great need for help with displaced livestock, with companion animals, and
of course with human survivors.
Our thoughts are with the people of Myanmar in this extremely difficult
time. IFAW is ready to help in whatever way we can.
About IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare)
Founded in 1969, IFAW works around the globe to protect animals and
habitats promoting practical solutions for animals and people. To learn how
you can help, please visit http://www.ifaw.org
SOURCE International Fund for Animal Welfare
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Related links:
http://www.ifaw.org
CONTACT:
Michael Booth, +1-508-648-3556,
mbooth@ifaw.org, or Chris Cutter, +1-508-744-2066,
ccutter@ifaw.org, both of International Fund for Animal Welfare
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