The team is in touch with the Mexican Association of Malta, which is working with Caritas Mexico in the state of Baja California Sur and has identified 170 temporary shelters where people who evacuated from their homes are seeking care. Direct Relief has also been connected to officials at SEMAR, the Mexican Navy, which is the branch responsible for disaster recovery, as well as officials at CENAPRED, Mexico’s national emergency management agency.

Additionally, Direct Relief is in contact with the Santa Barbara-based group AeroMedicos that flies a team of doctors to conduct monthly medical missions in lower Baja. AeroMedicos is awaiting the opening of local, rural airports so that they can help deliver essential medicines directly to affected rural health facilities.

A doctor operating a facility in Todos Santos reported they are in need of pain relievers, antiparasitic medicines, and IV fluids, as they anticipate a surge in dengue and other waterborne diseases. Direct Relief has items frequently requested after storms  available at its warehouse, including: personal care items such as soap and shampoo, emergency medical packs, and nutritional items.

The team will continue to monitor health needs in the area. To donate to Direct Relief’s emergency preparedness and response efforts, click here. Follow @DirectRelief on Twitter for the latest updates on this response.