Date Published: 22/06/2009 11:32
Following a violent explosion in the western Somali town of Beledweyne on June 18 2009, the local hospital supported by MSF received a total of 40 patients. Almost all of the patients had serious burns but received the necessary treatment. Twenty five of the injured required surgery. There were four deaths and the team is fearful for the survival of four other patients who are in a very critical condition.
The explosion resulted in a fire that caused many injuries through smoke inhalation and burns. Twenty nine bodies were brought to the hospital so that MSF could provide death certificates to the relatives. MSF is very sad to report the tragic loss of a member of its staff in the explosion. Our thoughts go out to his family at this time.