Health Ministry boosted with additional PPEs for frontline workers

— 78 boxes of supplies donated by UNICEF 

DPI, Guyana, Monday, August 17, 2020

Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Frank Anthony, today received a donation of Personal Protective (PPE) supplies from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), to further aid in the PPP/C Government’s fight against the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).

The 78 boxes of protective gear received by the Ministry included 1,600-N95 masks, 12,300 surgical masks, 1,390 coveralls and 1,250 goggles,

The Health Minister expressed his gratitude to UNICEF for its donation, noting that relationships with agencies, such as these, are crucial in the fight to mitigate the spread of the virus in the country.

 “We have had a very strong relationship with UNICEF and, this donation today is just another example of how we strengthen that relationship, and that we are grateful for this donation…. We continue to look forward to their assistance as we work together to tackle COVID-19 in Guyana.” 

UNICEF Deputy Country Representative, Mr. Irfan Akhtar, explained that his organisation has been on the forefront together with the Ministry of Health as a part of Health Emergency Operation Centre (HEOC), as well as supporting other Ministries to respond to the COVID pandemic.

Mr. Akhtar mentioned that they have also been collaborating with the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), and have provided 1,000 hygiene promotion kits to distribute in areas that are the most marginalised and in need.

“UNICEF remains committed to working with you under your leadership, under your guidance and we are formed to support you in all manner which is required to respond to COVID and general health issues,” Mr. Akhtar said.

On assuming office, the Health Minister made it his priority to ensure that frontline healthcare workers, in the COVID pandemic, are adequately supplied with the necessary protective gear.

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