6 February, 2018- The World Health Organization (WHO) has airlifted 17 tons of medical supplies to Al-Hasakeh governorate, Syrian Arab Republic, as part of its continued efforts to alleviate the suffering of hundreds of thousands of internally displaced people (IDPs) and critically ill patients in north-east Syria. 

The airlift contains enough supplies to treat at least 380 000 people, including those wounded as a result of the ongoing conflict.  

The provision of these critically-needed medical supplies is part of WHO’s commitment to boosting the health system in north-east Syria by donating life-saving medicines and essential equipment to  overstretched health care facilities in Al-Hasakeh, Rural Ar-Raqqa and Rural Deir-ez-Zor governorates.     

“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.