MSF 's first mission was to the Nicaraguan capital , Managua , where a 1972 earthquake had destroyed most of the city and killed between 10,000 and 30,000 people . The organization , today known for its quick response in an emergency , arrived three days after the Red Cross had set up a relief mission . On 18 and 19 September 1974 , Hurricane Fifi caused major flooding in Honduras and killed thousands of people ( estimates vary ) , and MSF set up its first long-term medical relief mission
1972 earthquake
1972 Nicaragua earthquake
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