Eleven out of 17 countries with more than 100 cases of COVID-19 are in West and Central Africa. Crucial medical equipment needed to respond to COVID-19 is lacking in many countries. WHO, working closely with the World Food Programme (WFP), the African Union (AU), national governments and the Jack Ma foundation, makes sure that vital supplies get to the people who need it most: front line health workers in Africa. In the past two days eight countries have received medical equipment.
With several borders closed and flights cancelled, ensuring countries receive deliveries of much-needed medical equipment has become increasingly difficult. WHO has called for humanitarian corridors and this week’s ‘Solidarity Flights’ are delivering essential supplies to every country in Africa. The medical cargo contains face shields, gloves, goggles, gowns, masks, medical aprons and thermometers, as well as more than 400 ventilators.