New Zealand orders 1.2 million sq cm of skin from US to treat volcano patients
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New Zealand has ordered 1.2 million sq cm of skin from America to treat patients suffering burns of up to 95% after Monday’s volcano eruption.
Surgeons have been working around the clock on 29 patients in burns units across the country since the volcano suddenly erupted on White Island, off New Zealand’s North Island.
Dr Peter Watson, clinical director at Middlemore Hospital where the national burns unit is, said 1.2 million sq cm of skin is coming from the United States as they “urgently need more skin grafts”.
A handout photo made available by Radio New Zealand (Radio NZ) shows New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern (C-R) meeting with first responders made up of Kahu helicopter pilots, firefighters and ambulance staff at the Whakatane Fire Station in Whakatane, New Zealand, 10 December 2019. Hopes are low for finding any more survivors after a volcanic eruption on New Zealand’s White Island, with questions being asked about why tourists were allowed there. EPA-EFE/DOM THOMAS HANDOUT
Six people have been confirmed dead following the eruption, while 30 are recovered in hospital.
The bodies of eight people are thought to be on the island as ever-increasing volcanic activity is preventing authorities from safely returning to it.
