WHO Appeals More Aids For Myanmar Earthquake, Operates Highest Level of Emergency

Mandalay – The devastating earthquakes that struck central Myanmar last Friday have triggered a humanitarian crisis, with the death toll now surpassing 2,600 and thousands more injured or missing. The 7.7 earthquake affected many areas including Mandalay has already burdened by internal displacement due to ongoing conflict.

The impact of the earthquakes extended beyond Myanmar’s borders. In Bangkok, Thailand, at least 17 people lost their lives, while in China’s Yunnan province, Ruili city reported damage to over 847 houses and more than 2,800 people affected.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared its highest level of emergency activation, emphasizing the dire need for medical supplies, trauma care, and disease prevention efforts. The organization has appealed for $8 million to sustain relief efforts over the next month. Myanmar’s fragile healthcare system has taken a significant hit, with three hospitals destroyed and 22 others partially damaged.

UNICEF has also raised alarms, calling for immediate funding to assist children and families impacted by the disaster. The organization aims to provide clean water, medical care, and emergency education services amid the crisis.

Myanmar’s military government, which has tightly controlled foreign media access since taking power in 2021, has made a rare exception in light of the catastrophe. Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing issued an open invitation for international aid, acknowledging the severity of the disaster. While countries like China, Russia, India, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam have mobilized aid efforts, the United States has yet to respond. Reports suggest that U.S. relief efforts were disrupted as the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) faced sudden layoffs last week. – News Agency