For Immediate Release
APHA Expresses Sympathy and Concern for Victims of Tsunami That Swept Through South Asia and East Africa
Statement from Georges C. Benjamin, MD, FACP, Executive Director
Washington, D.C., December 29, 2004 – “The American Public Health Association today expresses its deepest sympathy for the tens of thousands of victims of the recent tsunami that ravaged parts of Asia and East Africa. This massive tragedy is one of the worst natural disasters in history, and we give our full support to the relief efforts underway in the region.
“APHA has a long history of concern for social welfare issues, and many of our members work internationally, often in countries affected by massive population displacements. We recognize the great need at this time to provide adequate food, water, shelter, sanitation, and immunization to the survivors of this tragedy, particularly with the threat of a disease outbreak. This latest catastrophe poses a significant threat to the public health of thousands of residents.
“We praise the initiative of nations around the world to fund aid to men, women, and children in need. Consistent and thorough disaster assistance is essential to lessening the adverse health effects of this tragic event. We have urged our members to donate as generously as possible to the ongoing relief efforts and made available a list of reputable international organizations. We express our sorrow, sympathy, and solidarity with the people of South Asia and East Africa.”
Information on Aid for Tsunami Tragedy Victims (December 29, 2004)
# # #
About APHA
Founded in 1872, the APHA is the oldest, largest and most diverse organization of public health professionals in the world. The association aims to protect all Americans and their communities from preventable, serious health threats and strives to assure community-based health promotion and disease prevention activities and preventive health services are universally accessible in the United States. APHA represents a broad array of health providers, educators, environmentalists, policy-makers and health officials at all levels working both within and outside governmental organizations and educational institutions.