Medical Teams International Raises Funds for Flood Victims Medical Volunteers on standby to help families in Bangladesh

(PORTLAND, ORE. - Aug. 8, 2007) Medical Teams International announced today it is accepting contributions to help the more than 31 million people affected by the devastating floods in South Asia. Funds will be used to purchase health care supplies, medicines and hygiene items for distribution by local relief groups in India and Bangladesh. In a report today, the World Health Organization and UNICEF reported that stagnant waters—a common occurrence in these conditions—were a deadly breeding ground for diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. "After the flooding subsides, there is a second health crisis—this one brought on by contaminated water, outbreaks of diarrheal disease and other deadly infections," says Bas Vanderzalm, president of Medical Teams International. "It is essential that supplies reach these families immediately. Children, who make up 40 percent of the countries' populations, are especially vulnerable in these settings." Medical Teams International, formerly Northwest Medical Teams, is working with experienced local partners in India and Bangladesh to monitor the need for medical volunteers in the region. Volunteer doctors and nurses are on standby to depart for Bangladesh in response to partner requests and assessment. To contribute to the South Asia Flood Fund, please call 1-800-959-8325, give online at our secure Web site: www.medicalteams.org or mail gifts to PO Box 10, Portland, OR 97207. Donations can also be made at any US Bank office. Since 1979, the relief agency has shipped more than $1 billion in supplies and served 35 million people. More than 1,650 volunteer teams have traveled to communities affected by hurricanes, floods, conflict and poverty. The organization's Mobile Dental Clinic Program operates 10 dental units in the Pacific Northwest. Nearly 1,000 volunteer dental professionals provide care to 17,000 patients annually.