Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has resumed admissions to its severe burns hospital in the Drouillard region, the only hospital specializing in burns in Haiti, after having temporarily transformed it into a Covid-19 treatment center in mid-May to early August.

Since August 27, more than 30 burns have been examined in hospital, 10 of whom have been admitted "The types of burns that we see are all too common in Haiti," said Torianne Mason, Coordinator of MSF Drouillard Hospital. "Many of our patients come from urban areas where poor living conditions increase the risk of domestic accidents."

Dr Erneau Mondesir, Medical Director of the hospital explained "After a burn, a person must come to the hospital as soon as possible and not apply any products to the wounds. Upon arrival at the hospital, the patient is cared for by a team of surgeons, doctors, nurses, mental health workers, social workers and physiotherapists, depending on the depth and extent of the burns, we may need to do skin grafts and perform regular dressings and other care until the wound heals."

Adding, "After discharge, MSF continues to provide care for patients through outpatient consultations. Psychological and social support are often needed, as patients can find it difficult to accept themselves and adjust to life after a burn."

IH/ iciHaiti