The Red Cross educates the public about reducing disease vulnerability, while working to prevent and prepare for potential public health crises.

Such work is essential in a nation where the young government is still formulating and experimenting with health and social welfare models.

Due to a shortage of resources and training, health issues abound in Timor-Leste. The under 5 mortality rate, at 9.7%, is one of the highest in the world, and of particular concern for CVTL.

Although the prevalence of HIV/AIDS is less than 0.5%, a lack of awareness dictates that if effective preventive measures are not taken, the pandemic will pose a serious threat to this young nation.

The inter-linked Community-Based First Aid (CBFA) and Water and Sanitation projects not only give the beneficiaries access to safe water, but also provide education in basic health care and hygiene. Maternal and child health issues are increasingly integrated into this project. 

Through the health programme, the society is witnessing a drastic increase in health-awareness throughout target communities. Since its formal recognition in 2005, CVTL has been at the forefront of health education and prevention. With your help, we can continue to combat the health issues that afflict our young nation.