The World Health Organization (WHO) has allocated US$175,000 in emergency funds to support critical health services for communities affected by severe flooding and landslides across all 25 districts of Sri Lanka.
According to the WHO, the funds will be used to deploy rapid response medical and public health teams to provide trauma care, first aid, and referrals for hospital treatment. Special attention will be given to pregnant women, children, and the elderly. The teams will also carry out medical stocktaking, assess health and medicine requirements, and evaluate water quality, sanitation, food safety, and environmental health risks.
As the lead agency for Sri Lanka’s health sector response, the WHO is supporting the Joint Rapid Needs Assessment conducted by national authorities and partner organizations to coordinate a unified, government-led emergency health plan.
The agency said ensuring the continuity of essential health services, enhancing disease surveillance for early detection of waterborne and vector-borne illnesses, and mobilizing further resources remain its top priorities amid the ongoing disaster response.
