Deploying Emergency Kits for Noncommunicable Diseases, Following the Volcano Eruption in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

On the island of St Vincent, the volcano La Soufriere erupted unexpectedly in April 2021, forcing the urgent displacement of 20,000 inhabitants. This led to significant disruptions in people’s lives, health and disruption to the island’s healthcare system. People living with a noncommunicable disease (NCD) were particularly affected as they need continuing access to care, services and medicines to properly manage their condition.  This short story features how PAHO deployed the WHO Emergency NCD Kits, working with partners and the Ministry of Health in St. Vincent and the Grenadine, to mitigate the disruption of NCD care for the people of St. Vincent.