This week marks two years since the beginning of Syrian crisis. It also sees the number of refugees surpass the one million mark. As a result of the conflict, 70 000 individuals have lost their lives and an estimated further 350 000 persons have been injured. The health system has been severely disrupted, along with the health care infrastructure, with the workforce and availability of essential medicines and supplies being most affected. This has had a direct impact on the provision of primary and secondary health care (preventive and curative), including support for chronic diseases, reproductive health, infant and child health, nutrition, mental health services, and support for people with disabilities.
Highlights
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70% of health workers living in heavily affected areas (Rural Damascus, Homs and Aleppo) face difficulties in accessing their work place.
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36% of hospitals and 7% of health centres are out of service.
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Insulin, oxygen, anaesthetics, serums and intravenous fluids are no longer available inside the Syrian Arab Republic to meet the current needs. Health facilities and local pharmacies are increasingly unable to provide medicines, particularly for the continuous treatment of chronic diseases.
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“Essential Medicines List” for the Syrian Arab Republic established through collaboration of pharmaceutical experts, Syrian health authorities, and WHO.
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The funding gap for procuring life-saving emergency medicines, medical supplies, medical consumables and anti-cancer medicines on the Essential Medicines List for a period of one year alone is US$ 467 million.
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Effective early warning system helps to contain measles outbreak in Alk’aem refugee camp – Iraq.
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WHO Jordan and International Medical Corps finalized implementation of a mapping system for mental health, psychosocial, and protection services.
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WHO Iraq collaborates in the establishment of a small border clinic to provide essential medicines.
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On 26 February 2013, WHO Iraq Office delivered a consignment of life-saving medicines to be used in Domiz camp.
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Syrians account for 35% of all primary health care consultations in Lebanon.
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WHO provided the Ministry of Public Health in Lebanon with 10 000 doses of antimonials for treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis.