According to the latest official figures, the death toll has risen to 78,000 people, while more than 56,000 people are still missing. It is estimated that 1.5 million people are left  homeless and 2.4 million people are affected. It was reported that 1,000 schools collapsed and 2,200 damaged. Most of Myanmar’s casualties were killed by a 12-foot (3.5 meter) wall of water that hit the low-lying Irrawaddy Delta along with 190 kph (120 mph) winds.

Diarrhea, dysentery and skin infections have already afflicted some survivors crammed into monasteries, schools and other buildings after arriving in towns that were on the breadline even before the disaster. The United Nations say more than half a million people may now be in temporary settlements.

Malteser International works with local hospitals to provide medicine, on the job training in rain water collection and chlorination as well as staff members working in the fields of mother-child-health and antenatal care. We're also organizing health and hygiene education for the people  in Labutta to minimize the risk of the outbreak of diseases. The organization also provides  soap for 5,200 households and shelter material (blankets, plastic sheets and mosquito nets) for the internally displaced persons. In Labutta, Malteser International works to make the water safe for drinking (see photo, above).

Here are some statistics from our relief efforts:

• First aid and medical treatment for the injured and sick
• Supply of safe drinking water for 60,000 people, 850 plastic sheets for emergency shelter, 750 "family kits" (containing cookware, hygiene articles and water cans)
• Distribution of about 800 mosquito nets and 400 blankets
• Water testing service for other NGOs
• Training of Malteser International staff members in the handling of water treatment plants by THW

But, we need your help. Your tax-deductible donation to Malteser International Americas can go a long way to support our relief efforts in countries like Myanmar. We're on the spot, ready to help alleviate suffering. You can be part of our efforts.