Myanmar Earthquake Response

References:

1. GDACS – 7.7 Earthquake in Myanmar
2. WHO EMT Classification and Minimum Standards for Emergency Medical Teams (Blue Book)

SITUATION

Earlier today, a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, with the epicenter located 16 km (10 miles) northwest of Sagaing, near Mandalay, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). A M6.4 aftershock followed 12 minutes after the initial quake. The tremors were also felt as far away as China and Thailand.

A state of emergency has been declared in the regions of Sagaing, Mandalay, Magway, Bago, Easter Shan state, and Naypyidaw, according to local media reports as of 16:47 local time. A statement was issued that local officials would investigate the damage and begin coordinating rescue in affected areas. 

The CMAT Board of Directors met this evening and has authorized the deployment of our Rapid Assessment Team ‘Alpha’ this weekend. Their role will be to assess the medical and humanitarian needs in coordination with local authorities, international partners, and in coordination with the WHO Emergency Medical Teams Coordination Cell. Team Alpha will also assess the safety and security situation for CMAT volunteers, as well as logistical and financial requirements.

PROBABLE CMAT DEPLOYMENT

CMAT’s Rapid Assessment Team ‘Alpha’ will advise whether a Type 1 Fixed and/or Mobile Emergency Medical Team may be deployed to Myanmar for up to three months (with possible extension if needed). Departure from Canada could be on or after 05 April, with rotations every 3 weeks. 

The decision to deploy and in what capacity will entirely depend on information received from Team Alpha. (Reference B linked above describes the responsibilities and limitations of EMT Type 1 Fixed/ Mobile)

PROBABLE TASKS

1. Team Alpha to liaise with local government officials, WHO EMT Coordination Cell, and other stakeholders to assess the scope of need, determine deployment location and possible tasks for the EMTs
2. Deployment of EMT Type 1M or F , comprising of rotations of up to 16 personnel for 3 weeks each. 
3. CMAT’s EMT will require dedicated logistics and administrative volunteers in addition to medical/ clinical volunteers. We encourage non-medical volunteers to apply! 
4. Toronto-based volunteers may be needed to help assemble logistic and medical equipment and supplies in deployable pods.
5. Arrange for medical supply and pharmaceuticals for transportation either from Canada, or procurement in the crisis region (e.g.Thailand)

ADMINISTRATION 

1. All CMAT volunteers are requested to ensure your online volunteer profile is up to date, including uploading to your CMAT profile.  (click VOLUNTEER PORTAL).
   • Scan of your current passport, ensuring expiry is after October 1, 2025
   • Scan of your current professional license (if applicable) 
   • Scan of your vaccination certificate, including COVID
2. Ensure you have completed CMAT’s Online Pre-Deployment Training, and upload certificates of completion.  e-Curriculum attached below,. 
3. Submit an Expression of Interest Form (EOI) linked HERE  
4. If your passport is due to expire before October 1, 2025, please take immediate steps to have it updated.
5. Update any other necessary credentials and profile details as required. 
6. Note: Police/ Vulnerable sector check recommended but currently not mandatory

APPEAL FOR FINANCIAL SUPPORT

Deploying to disasters and crises comes with significant expense.  Your generosity in helping CMAT is greatly appreciated.  Tax-deductible donations can be made by Interac e-transfer or PayPal to: [email protected]  or click the link below to donate directly online on our CanadaHelps page.