A specialist World Vision team has made a start in tackling the threat of disease in the makeshift hilltop camps in tsunami-hit Gizo in the Solomon Islands, after the recent arrival of a major World Vision aid shipment.

The giant tidal wave, triggered by an 8.0 magnitude earthquake in the early hours of last Monday, measured between two and 10 metres high in places and killed at least 34 people.

Almost half of the Western Province, which has a population of about 90,000, is thought to have been affected by the tsunami.

Thousands of people have fled the area in the wake of the disaster.

The World Vision aid included urgently needed tarpaulins, mosquito nets, blankets and other basic items. They will provide shelter and protection from malaria in the camps that are now under threat from disease.

The spread of diarrhoea is a particular concern with a number of cases being reported and fears that infection will spread rapidly.

Meanwhile, a specialist water and sanitation team has visited the more remote camps and set up basic hygiene facilities. Efforts are also underway to secure clean water for the camps.