Disaster now Disease strikes Solomon Islands

Rescuers feared that infection would slowly and painfully creep into towns and villages hit by the tsunami.

Disease began showing up amongst victims of the Solomon Islands, as aid workers helped supplies were running out.
Appealing for more water, tents and medicine for thousands of homeless people, aircraft and ships loaded with food, water, tents, tarpaulins, blankets, medicines and other emergency supplies began arriving in the western islands.

"Conditions are very, very difficult," said Dr. George Jalini. With nearly 5,500 homeless and at least 30 people reported killed, victim's needs are becoming increasingly urgent as water and supplies run low. Malnutrition is hitting the area and attacking the smallest of people. Children are starting to experience diarrhea due to a water shortage. Food has been destroyed because villages are all on the seaside and covered with mud and debris.

The French government has stepped in to provide victims with emergency supplies and water treatment equipment. A New Zealand Air Force cargo plane has delivered several hundred bags of rice and supplies and another C-130 cargo plane from Australia is due to arrive with more supplies and more aid.