WHO: Frontline health workers must be supported

KUALA LUMPUR: The frontline health workers must be given support as they are the backbone for response to Covid-19 cases, says the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The world faces an unprecedented crisis and is responding in an unprecedented manner.

There are many examples of Malaysia’s efforts to respond quickly and effectively, said its Western Pacific Region representative office for Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore Dr Jacqueline Lo Ying-Ru (pic).

“This includes contact isolation, testing, treating and tracing. Countries must continue to strengthen these areas while applying movement restrictions and social distancing measures to slow the virus’ spread and reduce the burden on the health system, ” she said.

Dr Lo acknowledged that Malaysia’s capacity to manage communicable diseases and health emergencies has advanced considerably following its previous experience with H1N1, SARS, Nipah and other infectious threats.

Preparedness and responses to new threats, especially those that rise from human-animal interface, were always evolving and WHO worked with the ministry on this, she said.

WHO also shared technical guidance and gave suggestions to prepare for wide spread community transmission, she added.

“Efforts are underway to reinforce existing systems and mechanisms to be able to cope with an evolving situation, ” she said.

Dr Lo said that to respond to any cases quickly, national health authorities need to ensure that disease surveillance systems continue to be strengthened.