Nurse of the Week: Portland Nurse Frank Tyler Travels to Africa Following Devastating Cyclone

Our Nurse of the Week is Frank Tyler, a Portland nurse and public health expert who traveled to Africa following Cyclone Idai, which swept through Mozambique, Malawi, and Zimbabwe at the end of March. Tyler is a health adviser for Portland-based nonprofit, Medical Teams International.

Tyler spent a month in Beira, Mozambique, one of the hardest hit towns, as part of an assessment team that will help determine health care needs, locate populations most impacted, construct clinics, and provide immediate medical care. After assessing ongoing needs, the organization will recruit 16-20 nurses and doctors from their emergency response roster. Medical Teams International is also working in close coordination with Integral Alliance, Food for the Hungry, Tearfund, and Medair.

An estimated 600,000 people were affected in Mozambique alone, and authorities fear as many as 1,000 people have died. Access to flooded areas is limited or nonexistent in many areas due to damaged roads and infrastructure, and many people are unable to get to evacuation centers, while the only source of electricity remains at the Beira airport.

The main role of Medical Teams International is working to prevent the spread of cholera and malaria, as well as finding ways to provide clean water. On his trip to Mozambique, Tyler carried large bags of medical supplies and communication equipment including antibiotics, diagnostic equipment, personal protection, bandages, and dressings.

To learn more about Portland-based nurse and public health expert, Frank Tyler, who traveled to Mozambique following a devastating cyclone earlier this year, visit here.