LTTE clashes limiting access to health care
Wednesday, February 25, 2009 at 8:02 am
The ongoing clashes between the Sri Lankan forces and LTTE is limiting access to health care in the island nation’s embattled north, putting the lives of tens of thousands at risk, the World Health Organization (WHO) said today (February 25).
In a report, The UN agency called for a rapid assessment of health needs, improved preventive and curative care and enhanced coordination among all health partners.
It said the health sector is understaffed, resulting in reduced health care for many people, while the clashes and population displacement are impacting patient referrals.
The agency also feared that high immunization rates will not be maintained and that expectant mothers are not able to access the services they need.
The health sector is asking for USD 7.4 million — of which WHO is seeking over USD 4 million — as part of the Common Humanitarian Action Plan for Sri Lanka to help internally displaced persons and host communities in strife-torn areas.
To date, the sector has been focusing on assisting people in Kilinochi, Mannar, Jaffna, Vavuniya and Mullaitivu through the delivery of mobile clinics, drugs, medical equipment and bed nets, among other items.
“If further measures aren’t taken, health care will continue to deteriorate and outbreaks of malaria, dengue, measles and other communicable diseases could occur,” WHO said in a statement.
(With inputs from Agencies)
( This post is from an independent writer. The opinions and views expressed herein are those of the author and are not endorsed by APakistanNews.Com.)
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