Health Implications and Recovery Efforts Following the La Soufrière Volcano Eruption in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

In April 2021, the violent eruption of La Soufrière volcano dramatically reshaped both the physical environment and daily lives across Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Towering ash clouds and hazardous gases spewed into the atmosphere, triggering widespread evacuations and disrupting essential services.This event not only exposed the intricate volcanic dynamics characteristic of the Caribbean but also brought to light critical public health challenges that demand urgent attention. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) together with the World Health Organization (WHO) swiftly coordinated emergency responses to safeguard affected communities. This article explores how volcanic activity intersects with public health concerns, detailing immediate health risks, environmental hazards from ashfall, mental health impacts on displaced populations, as well as…