The World Health Organization (WHO) warns the risk of outbreaks of infectious diseases such as cholera, dengue fever after the earthquake in Myanmar.
The warning was issued on March 31. The fact that thousands of people have to relocate to cramped areas, along with the devastation of the water supply and hygiene system, causes the disease to spread.
WHO said that Myanmar’s health system was on the brink of collapse when hospitals were overloaded. At least 20 hospitals were seriously damaged, of which three medical facilities were completely destroyed. Thousands of injured people have not been treated promptly. Many boiling water burns occurred at noon when they were cooking, but the hospital only prioritized critical cases.
“We are very concerned about the risk of increasing infectious diseases. People living outdoors in the condition of lack of clean water and food, this can lead to serious outbreaks without emergency intervention,” Dr. Margaret Harris, WHO spokesman, said.
The survivor of the earthquake waiting for medical care at a hospital at Naypyidaw, Myanmar on March 28. Image: AFP
To respond, WHO has launched an emergency call for $ 8 million in the first 30 days after the disaster, to ensure the provision of essential health services. The immediate goal is to take care of and surgery for emergency surgery, epidemiological monitoring to prevent the spread of the disease, and maintain important medical services such as immunization and health care for mothers and children.
“Emergency medical teams not only include doctors and nurses, they also bring equipment and tents to set up temporary medical centers. We sent three tons of medical equipment to Mandalay and Naypyidaw, but still needed more,” Harris emphasized.
In addition to treating injuries, WHO is focusing on providing drugs for diabetics, cardiovascular and ensuring pregnant women can give birth in safety conditions. “Many people run away from home without granting medicine. We have to make sure they have enough medicine and medical care needed in the near future,” Harris said.
WHO warns that without emergency funding, many people will die, the weak medical system of Myanmar will be paralyzed, and the disease outbreaks may occur in the coming weeks. The organization is continuing to call for help from the international community to avoid a more serious medical crisis.