WHO Funds Nepal Flood Relief Amidst Devastation

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released US $150,000 to support Nepal's urgent health and other needs in the wake of devastating flash floods. This funding comes from the South-East Asia Regional Health Emergency Fund (SEARHEF) and underscores WHO's commitment to assisting Nepal during its response and recovery phases.

Within hours of the August 26th floods, WHO had already dispatched essential emergency medical supplies, including kits capable of serving nearly 10,000 people for three months. Additional medical supplies like surgical masks, gloves, and sanitizers were also mobilized for the affected regions.

National authorities report over 730 fatalities, with approximately 2,500 individuals still missing and over 200 injured. An estimated 10,000 households across six districts in Bagmati and Gandaki provinces require immediate relief. The floods have caused widespread loss of life, displacement, and critical damage to infrastructure, including health facilities.

Specifically, four health facilities in the Rasuwa district are completely destroyed, and two in Dhading are partially damaged. Access to some health facilities is hindered by damaged roads, complicating efforts to reach affected populations. WHO is collaborating with the government and partners to coordinate health responses, disease surveillance, and maintain essential health services while addressing risks like water-borne illnesses and mental health impacts.