WHO The War in Ukraine and Global Health

Statement by Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for EuropeFirstly, we are working to get the health supplies that are needed into Ukraine, and ensure a sustainable system of “safe passage” for the delivery of humanitarian health supplies to where they are needed within the country. I have been working closely with Amin Awad, Assistant Secretary-General and UN Crisis Coordinator for Ukraine to establish such a route. Life-saving essential medicines, such as oxygen and insulin, personal protective equipment, surgical supplies, anaesthetics and safe blood products, are in short supply. So far, 2 shipments totalling 76 tonnes (36 + 40 tonnes) of trauma and emergency health supplies, as well as freezers, refrigerators, ice packs and cool boxes are in transit in Ukraine. We have further shipments of 500 oxygen concentrators and more supplies are on their way.A second priority is to ensure that neighbouring countries have the infrastructure and expertise in place to meet the urgent health needs of those arriving. According to UNHCR, more than 1.7 million people, the vast majority women and children, have left Ukraine since 24 February. All those seeking refuge, including internationals who had been residing in Ukraine, must be granted movement across Europe.Dr Tedros on Ukraine:So far, WHO has delivered 81 metric tons of supplies, and WHO is establishing a pipeline of supplies for health facilities throughout Ukraine, especially in the most affected areas. Yesterday, we delivered five metric tons of medical supplies to Kyiv to support surgical care for 150 trauma patients, and other supplies to manage a range of health conditions for 45 thousand people for a month. More supplies will be distributed today, and we have 400 cubic metres of supplies waiting to be transported to Ukraine from our logistics hub in Dubai. So far, WHO has verified 18 attacks on health facilities, health workers and ambulances, including 10 deaths and 16 injuries. These attacks deprive whole communities of health care. More than 2 million people have left Ukraine, and WHO is supporting neighbouring countries to provide health care for refugees, most of whom are women and children. Some of the main health challenges we see are hypothermia and frostbite, respiratory diseases, lack of treatment for cardiovascular diseases and cancer, and mental health issues.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.