A donation by the Government of Japan made it possible for WHO/PAHO to secure a large stock of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) for Panama to contribute to its ongoing COVID-19 response.
The Government of Japan’s grant amounted to over $US 230 000 of equipment. To provide Panama with the supplies, PAHO/WHO made use of the COVID-19 Supply Chain System (CSCS) coordinated by WHO to manage the acquisition of products, including gowns, medical masks, N95 masks, protective goggles, isolation gowns and face shields.
The government of Japan said its donation was as a gesture of solidarity to support local efforts against COVID-19.
The equipment will help protect professionals and health workers who care for patients in intensive care units, in hospitals and recovery or isolation centres throughout the country. To coordinate the donation, PAHO deployed a large team who works to ensure timely access to quality and affordable equipment for the countries in its region.
PAHO’s work in Panama during the COVID-19 crisis has focused mainly on providing technical cooperation to prevent and control infections, strengthening epidemiological and health surveillance, ensuring the capacity of laboratories and hospitals, managing cases and ensuring access to a safe and effective vaccine.