Saving lives, preventing health risks and restoring health care services in the aftermath of ...

Tripoli, Libya, 22 September 2023 – In the wake of catastrophic floods that had a devastating impact on Libya's east coast, the World Health Organization (WHO) is taking swift action to assist affected communities. WHO is supporting urgent efforts to restore access to health care and control the spread of infectious diseases, especially among the tens of thousands of people who have been displaced and are now living in shelters. “The magnitude of this catastrophe is staggering,” said Dr Ahmed Zouiten, WHO Representative in Libya. “The need for swift, unified action cannot be overstated. We are collaborating closely with our partners, national authorities and the international community to deliver vital aid, save lives and reinstate essential health care services during this profoundly challenging period.” A United Nations interagency team has assessed the affected areas and identified four priorities: providing clean water, preventing disease outbreaks, restoring primary health care services and establishing mental health and psychosocial support for survivors. Devastating impact and public health risks Since the disaster struck on 10 September 2023, 4014 people have been reported killed and over 8500 remain missing. Search and rescue teams have managed to dig 452 survivors out from the rubble of collapsed buildings. Between 30 000 and 35 000 people displaced by the floods are currently residing in overcrowded camps and settlements in Derna governorate, where th...
Source: WHO EMRO News - Category: Middle East Health Source Type: news