LETTER FROM HAITI - FIGHTING FOR SURVIVAL

The political crisis in Haiti has had a severe impact on the health of the population. Mortality among Haitians is 13 per 1000, much higher than the Latin American rate of seven per 1000, and the incidence of ADDS, tuberculosis, and malnourishment is increasing among children. Although food and medicine are exempt, United Nations sanctions have had a negative impact on most of the population. In particular the embargo on fuel has limited most people's access to health care. The difficulties of distributing aid and health care without softening the embargo on fuel are immense, and the health of Haitians is not likely to improve until the political crisis is resolved.