Jamaica Hurricane Melissa: PAHO/WHO Urgent Appeal for Health Aid

PAHO/WHO Issues Urgent Appeal for $14.2 Million Following Devastating Hurricane Melissa in the Caribbean

A critical donor alert has been issued by the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) to mobilize resources for the health response following Hurricane Melissa, which has wrought widespread destruction across Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic. The organization is seeking $14.2 million to address the escalating health crisis over the next six months, with a particular focus on the severely impacted nation of Jamaica.

Caribbean Reels from Hurricane’s Impact: Over One Million Displaced

Hurricane Melissa has left a trail of devastation throughout the Caribbean, claiming more than 50 lives and displacing over one million people. Jamaica has borne the brunt of the storm, with an estimated 2.8 million residents exposed to destructive winds and widespread flooding. As of November 3, 2025, authorities in Jamaica have confirmed 32 deaths, treated 94 injuries, and are providing shelter for over 7,000 individuals.

Jamaica’s Health Infrastructure Under Severe Strain

The hurricane’s impact on Jamaica’s health infrastructure is particularly concerning. Five major hospitals in the Western and Southern regions of the country have sustained severe damage, hindering their ability to provide critical care. Access to clean water has been compromised, with seventy water supplies rendered inoperable due to high turbidity and widespread electrical outages. Furthermore, approximately 40% of facilities across the island are experiencing power instability, significantly complicating recovery efforts.

Essential Health Services Disrupted, Vulnerable Populations at Risk

Initial health assessments paint a dire picture of the situation in Jamaica. The continuity of essential health services is under severe strain, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations – including children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with chronic conditions. Infrastructure damage and service disruptions are creating significant barriers to accessing necessary medical care.

“The situation is critical, and we are seeing a growing need for support, especially for those already facing health challenges,” a senior official stated.

Mental Health Crisis Emerges in Wake of Disaster

Beyond immediate physical injuries, the psychological toll of Hurricane Melissa is becoming increasingly apparent. Communities are grappling with trauma and loss, leading to a surge in demand for psychological support and community-based mental health interventions. Addressing these emerging mental health needs is now a top priority for aid organizations.

Disease Outbreak Risk Looms Large

The risk of disease outbreaks is substantial in the aftermath of the hurricane. Widespread flooding, breakdowns in sanitation systems, and mass displacement have created ideal conditions for the spread of waterborne, foodborne, mosquito-borne, and respiratory illnesses. Overcrowding in shelters further exacerbates these transmission risks. Logistical challenges are also hindering access to affected communities, delaying crucial damage assessments and the delivery of life-saving supplies.

PAHO/WHO Mobilizes Resources, Seeks $14.2 Million in Funding

To effectively respond to the crisis, PAHO/WHO is urgently seeking $14.2 million in donor support. This funding will be allocated to restoring health care delivery, intensifying disease surveillance, ensuring access to safe water and sanitation, and improving the coordination of humanitarian assistance. A significant portion – $10.2 million – will be dedicated to supporting the continuity of essential care, including critical mental health support, and restoring the capacity of damaged health services.

PAHO/WHO has already activated its emergency procedures and deployed twelve international experts to Jamaica. These experts are providing support in areas such as infrastructure damage assessment, environmental health, mental health and psychosocial assistance, emergency medical teams, logistics, and coordination. Daily collaboration is underway with the national Health Emergency Operations Center, the United Nations Country Team, and other humanitarian partners.

The organization is also leading health sector coordination, participating in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) efforts, and mobilizing medical supplies from its regional reserves in Panama and Barbados. Additional resources are urgently needed to scale up and sustain critical health response operations on the ground, protecting the lives and health of affected populations.

The full donor alert document, providing detailed information on the response strategy and funding breakdown, is available online.