Donations of medical supplies, equipment welcomed in Mexico

As the outbreak of the H1N1 flu virus continues to spread throughout the world, Mexico's consul in Brownsville said donations of medical supplies and equipment would be welcomed in his country.

Consul Victor Manuel Treviño Escudero said he and his staff are available to fully support and assist in arrangements required to contribute supplies to Mexico.

The World Health Organization noted that as of approximately noon Tuesday, Mexico had reported 822 laboratory-confirmed H1N1 Flu cases, including 29 deaths.

"If community groups or persons want to help, items that can be accepted include latex gloves, masks, protection equipment for health care personnel, goggles, disposable surgical wear, alcohol gel, paper towels, and liquid soap among other supplies," Treviño said.

Significant quantities are needed. The list that the consulate's office released shows that 100 million bottles of alcohol gel are needed and 20 million disposable sterilized long-sleeved surgical gowns. Seventy-five percent of the gowns needed are medium-size and 25 percent large-size.

Other items include 1,000 ventilators for hospital use, 42 million antiseptic towels, 20,000 thermometers, 35,000 syringes, 20 million gel dispensers, nearly 20 million boxes of tissue paper, 10 equipped mobile hospitals, 5.4 million latex and surgical gloves (medium and large size) and nearly nine million normal and high-efficiency masks.

The list also calls for 12 million masks with double reinforcement, 500,000 ice chests, one million bags for the disposal of bio-hazardous waste and one million waste-receptacles.

Organizations or individuals interested in donating can call the consulate staff at (956) 542-2051 and (956) 544-4267. An updated needs list also is available.