WHO Declares Myanmar Earthquake a Top-Level Emergency, Seeks Urgent Funding
The WHO classifies the Myanmar earthquake as a top-level emergency, requesting $8 million for urgent relief. The quake has resulted in over 1,700 deaths in Myanmar and 18 in Thailand. Rescue efforts are underway, with multiple countries contributing teams and resources to assist in recovery efforts, while the WHO mobilizes to prevent disease outbreaks as a consequence of the disaster.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the recent earthquake in Myanmar a top-level emergency and is urgently seeking $8 million for relief efforts aimed at saving lives and preventing disease outbreaks over the next 30 days. As of now, approximately 1,700 casualties have been reported in Myanmar, with about 3,400 injuries and 300 individuals still missing.
Rescue operations are actively taking place in the devastated Mandalay region, where rescuers are continuing to search for survivors despite ongoing aftershocks. Meanwhile, in Thailand, authorities reported at least 18 fatalities and 33 injuries, with 78 people unaccounted for due to the collapse of a 30-storey skyscraper in Bangkok.
The earthquake, initially recorded at a magnitude of 7.7, struck near Mandalay, followed by a 6.7-magnitude aftershock. The seismic activity has caused extensive destruction across various provinces, crippling infrastructure, and demanding immediate international assistance.
Global efforts are mobilizing for earthquake relief, with multiple countries providing support. China dispatched an 82-member rescue team and an additional 118-member team for search operations. Hong Kong contributed 51 personnel, two rescue dogs, and relevant equipment, while India has initiated aid flights to Myanmar.
The WHO has activated its logistics hub in Dubai to supply trauma injury resources and is deploying an emergency management response to address the escalating health risks due to the disaster. The organization emphasizes that the high casualty count and trauma injuries, combined with limited surgical capabilities, heighten infection risks for the affected populations.
The Myanmar earthquake has resulted in significant loss of life and severe infrastructural damage, leading to urgent calls for international assistance. With extensive rescue efforts underway from various countries, the WHO is advocating for immediate funding to manage health risks and provide care to the injured. Together, these initiatives are crucial for addressing the aftermath of the earthquake and supporting recovery efforts across the affected regions.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
