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Haiti Earthquake: A Spiral Toward Collapse

In January 2010, a devastating earthquake leveled Haiti's its capital, infrastructure and health system. 1.2 million people were without homes and displaced into temporary settlement camps, many without adequate shelter, clean water, sanitation or access to emergency medical aid or health care. The UN called the situation "catastrophic."

After two months of a high-intensity relief effort, the medical crisis was far from over. The hard-hit urban areas saw an exodus of homeless survivors to find support with relatives in rural and remote villages. Already existing on thin margins, these villages are short of food and basic health care.

Already a slow-burning crisis due to a legacy of neglect, Haiti's recovery will require long-term committment.