In the short story "And of Clay Are We Created," what does it suggest that the TV reporters use Azucena as a symbol for?

When "And of Clay We Are Created" opens, Azucena has been horrifically trapped in the mud resulting from massive mudslides following a volcanic eruption. One of the worst tragedies in Colombian history, these mudslides claimed over 20,000 lives, many of which lie buried beneath Azucena.
Only Azucena's head is above the mud, and she says that, below, her brothers and sisters cling to her legs. All efforts to remove her are futile, and a reporter named Rolf Carle ends up staying with her as cameras flood into the area to capture the devastation. Many of them become focused on little Azucena, who cannot be freed by Rolf. Supplies are in high demand and short supply. With so many cameras focused on her struggle, Azucena comes to symbolize the tragedy itself.
Rolf stays with Azucena, desperately trying to keep her comfortable, find appropriate medical care, and find a pump that would clear the mud from her proximity. Unfortunately, all his efforts fail, and he is with Azucena for days until she gives up her struggle and dies. This cements her place as a symbol for this tragedy: even sweet Azucena can not be saved from the disaster, and the cameras hold their gaze on the final moments of her life.