Direct Relief is airlifting medical aid to Vietnam, which was struck by Typhoon Ketsana (“Ondoy”) today. Considered the worst typhoon in 30 years, Ketsana has killed 23 in Vietnam and forced more than 170,000 people in six central provinces to evacuate after causing vast devastation in the Philippines last weekend.

The emergency consignment includes antibiotics, analgesics, wound-care supplies, and equipment designated for Kim Long Charity Clinic, which operates an outpatient hospital in Hue with a staff of 50 doctors as well as seven clinics throughout the country. It has been a Direct Relief partner for two years.

FedEx has committed to airlifting medical aid to the Philippines as Direct Relief’s response to the typhoon there continues. Working closely with partners in Manila, Mercy Relief, and other organizations both nongovernmental and governmental, Direct Relief is identifying specific medical needs of partners and people displaced by the typhoon. Nearly 500,000 people have been displaced and 300,000 are living in shelters.

Several health issues arise during floods, including skin infections, diarrheal diseases, and respiratory infections, all of which are exacerbated in crowded shelter conditions. Direct Relief’s emergency response team is working to provide fast, targeted, appropriate assistance in the wake of Typhoon Ketsana.