Belize City, Belize, 16 March 2020 (PAHO/WHO) – On Monday, March 16, 2020, the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) donated personal protective equipment (PPEs) as part of the continuous support to the Ministry of Health in responding to the declared COVID-19 pandemic.
PAHO/WHO Representative, Dr. Noreen Jack, met with the Minister of Health, Honourable Pablo Marin, and Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero to handover the PPEs. This comes as an ongoing effort from PAHO/WHO to support Belize and healthcare personnel in the preparation and response to COVID-19.
The donated Personal Protective Equipment included:
- Three (3) COVID-19 E-gene Test Kits
- One (1) COVID-19 RdRP-gene Test Kit
- 1000 Units of N95 Respirators
- 6000 Units of Surgical Masks
- 2500 Units of Gowns
- 9000 Units of Gloves (Medium)
- 31,500 Units of Gloves (Large)
- 12 Units of COVID-19 Banners and Stands
Along with the donation of PPEs, PAHO/WHO Belize continues to support the Ministry of Health through providing technical guidance and advice, participating in surveillance meetings, purchasing of additional PPEs, training and guidance for healthcare personnel and the public and assisting in enhancing risk communication and community strategies as part of COVID-19 preparedness and prevention efforts.
About PAHO/WHO
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) works with the countries of the Americas to improve the health and quality of life of its population. Founded in 1902, it is the world’s oldest international public health agency. It serves as the Regional Office of WHO for the Americas and is the specialized health agency of the Inter-American system. For further information please contact IT/Communications Consultant, Pete Castillo, at [email protected] or Zenena Moguel, Communications Consultant at [email protected]. Visit paho.org to learn more.