Lithuanian mobile medical team returns from Venezuela earthquake mission

VILNIUS - A Lithuanian mobile emergency medical team returned home on Friday after a 12-day humanitarian mission in Venezuela following a devastating earthquake, the Health Ministry said.

The 20-member team, comprising 15 medics from various Lithuanian healthcare institutions and five logistics experts from the Fire and Rescue Department, provided medical care, organised humanitarian assistance and shared expertise with local professionals.

For most of the mission, the team operated in the La Guaira region near the capital Caracas, where it established a field hospital. Over the 12-day period, the facility provided medical assistance to around 230 patients.

Lithuanian medics provided primary healthcare, carried out essential diagnostic tests and treated earthquake victims, as well as patients suffering from infections or acute flare-ups of chronic conditions.

During the mission, the team worked with German counterparts and local authorities to assist displaced residents by setting up tents in temporary camps to provide immediate shelter.

In recognition of their contribution to disaster relief efforts, the Lithuanian team was awarded the "Heroes of Venezuela" medals.