On October 30, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck off Turkey's Aegaeon coast. Over 100 people have died, over 1,000 were injured, and at least 17 buildings have been damaged-making it the deadliest earthquake to hit Turkey in nearly a decade. Dozens of people remain unaccounted for and over 2,000 have been displaced from their homes. International Medical Corps is working with local partners to provide immediate relief and recovery support as part of the Government of Turkey's response efforts.
The 7.0 magnitude earthquake striking the western province and city of Izmir, Turkey has led to 116 deaths and 1,035 people injured so far. The earthquake struck as Turkey also struggles with an increasing number of COVID-19 cases - now at more than 384,000 as of November 4. With more than 2,000 people displaced in tents or other temporary shelters, there are increasing concerns about the further spread of COVID-19 due to overcrowding and limited sanitation and hygiene measures.
International Medical Corps is working in support of the Government of Turkey and with our local partners to provide relief to the earthquake's devastation and to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Our teams are mobilizing urgently needed supplies, including personal protective equipment (PPE) and infection prevention and control items, alongside surging efforts to provide water, sanitation and hygiene support to keep impacted families healthy.
Operating in Turkey since 2012, International Medical Corps' approach to help people help themselves is critical to ensure a long-term impact in the communities we serve. In addition to addressing immediate needs from the earthquake, International Medical Corps is working with local partners to support recovery efforts to build back better and help the survivors. International Medical Corps will coordinate closely with governmental agencies and other partners to ensure sustainability.
