“Tens of thousands of IDPs living in deplorable conditions in camps scattered throughout north-east Syria will benefit from these supplies. Many people have been injured as a result of the conflict raging in the area. Some have suffered horrific injuries from landmines. Others have chronic diseases that are treatable with medicines, but life-threatening without,” said Elizabeth Hoff, WHO Representative in Syria.
“Wherever there are needs and gaps in the health system, WHO’s prompt response is essential,” Hoff added.
In 2017, WHO airlifted a total of 5 shipments of life-saving medicines, supplies and medical equipment to Al-Hasakeh governorate, weighing a total of 63 tons and sufficient for 718 119 treatments, including trauma cases. These supplies included trauma kits, intravenous fluids, emergency medical kits, specialized kits to treat burns and diarrhoea, and medicines to treat patients suffering from chronic diseases such as diabetes, and cardiovascular and kidney disease. The last shipment of 2017 was delivered on 28 December, consisting of 19 tons of medical supplies to support 460 000 treatments for ill and wounded patients.