Beirut: The World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health, has received a critical shipment of essential medical supplies and medicines at Rafic Hariri International Airport in Beirut. This shipment, provided by the European Union (EU), the European Union Humanitarian Aid (ECHO), and the Government of France, aims to bolster Lebanon's healthcare system and ensure the continuity of essential health services.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the French humanitarian cargo includes vital medicines, trauma and emergency medical supplies, vaccines, mental health medications, oral medicines, renewable medical equipment, and a mobile health post. These resources are intended to enhance emergency preparedness and healthcare delivery capacities across Lebanon.
The European Union's contribution features 8 kits of Non-Communicable Disease Kits (NCDK) medicines, designed to support up to 80,000 people suffering from chronic illnesses for three months. This is crucial for ensuring uninterrupted access to life-saving treatments in Lebanon.
Support from ECHO is comprised of 151 sets of trauma and emergency medical supplies, along with medicines and vaccines totaling 804 boxes. These supplies are estimated to aid health service delivery for up to 2,000 trauma patients and 10,000 beneficiary contacts during a three-month emergency response period, facilitated through hospitals and primary healthcare facilities.
The EU Humanitarian Air Bridge shipment also includes donations of supplementary mental health medicines, oral medicines, and renewable equipment units to reinforce hospitals and primary healthcare services responding to increasing humanitarian and health needs.
The Government of France has contributed two Mobile Health Units, which will enhance rapid medical response capacities and assist in delivering healthcare services in emergency situations and underserved areas. Each Mobile Health Unit has the capability to treat 500 casualties.
French Ambassador Mr. Herv© Magro stated, "Today marks the arrival of the 4th delivery of French aid, totaling over 100 tons of humanitarian and medical assistance since early March, as part of the EU Humanitarian Air Bridge. France remains committed to supporting Lebanon and its healthcare system during these challenging times."
WHO Deputy Representative in Lebanon, Dr. Yutaro Setoya, expressed gratitude, stating, "WHO extends its sincere gratitude to the European Union, ECHO, and the Government of France for their timely and generous support to Lebanon's health sector. These essential medical supplies and equipment will help strengthen emergency preparedness and response capacities."
WHO continues its collaboration with national authorities and international partners to ensure the timely delivery and distribution of life-saving medical assistance to hospitals, primary healthcare centers, and vulnerable communities throughout Lebanon.