PETALING JAYA: The Health Ministry has placed 85 emergency medical teams comprising 387 personnel on standby for deployment to flood-hit areas as needed.
The ministry said the teams were part of its preparations for possible flooding during the 2026/2027 Northeast Monsoon, which began on Oct 27 and is expected to continue until March next year.
The teams comprise 36 Health Rapid Assessment and Rapid Response Teams, 34 Medical Rapid Response Teams and 15 Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Teams.
“Flood conditions, the readiness of health facilities and the coordination of response measures are being monitored continuously in collaboration with state health departments and relevant agencies.
“To ensure continuity of healthcare services, health facilities at risk of flooding have been identified, along with alternative facilities in case of operational disruptions.
“Preparations also include protecting medical assets and equipment, as well as planning for the early evacuation of high-risk patients, including pregnant women and those requiring haemodialysis,” the ministry said in a statement on Monday (Nov 9).
It said the teams were responsible for assessing health risks, providing medical and emergency treatment, conducting surveillance and controlling infectious diseases, as well as offering mental health and psychosocial support to flood victims.
A total of 128 vehicles had also been prepared to support the mobilisation of personnel and field operations.
The ministry said flood-related medicines at concessionaire supplier warehouses remained at stable levels, with supplies estimated to be sufficient for one to three months.
“Stock levels and additional supplies will continue to be monitored and coordinated to ensure adequate treatment supplies,” it said.
The ministry added that health assessments, infectious disease monitoring, environmental hygiene inspections, food and water safety checks, vector control, as well as mental health and psychosocial support were being provided at temporary evacuation centres.
“These measures aim to reduce the risk of flood-related illnesses such as diarrhoea, food poisoning, leptospirosis and respiratory tract infections.”
