UNICEF hands over critical medical and WASH supplies to MoH for COVID-19 response

Thimphu, June 19, 2020:  To support the Royal Government of Bhutan’s response to COVID-19 pandemic, UNICEF Bhutan today handed over two Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) machines with 4,800 rapid test kits, 35,952 items of personal protective equipment (PPE), 100 handheld thermometers and 3,652 water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) supplies to the Ministry of Health.

UNICEF procured these critical medical supplies with funding support from the Government of Japan (GoJ) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Globally, UNICEF’s expertise is leveraged to support governments to procure essential and emergency medical supplies.

The PCR machines, each of which was procured with ADB and GoJ funding will supplement the existing PCRs in the country and support the health ministry’s efforts to test more samples taken for COVID-19. The PCRs would provide real time and accurate data within 35 minutes.

With the COVID-19 rapid testing kits handed over today, the Ministry of Health can conduct another 4,800 tests. A further 1,000 testing kits procured with support from ADB is expected to arrive in the country next month.

The PPE supplies comprise of coverall, face shields and masks, alcohol based hand rub, and thermometers for frontline and facility health care workers. It also includes WASH supplies for infection prevention that are critical in the government’s efforts to respond to COVID-19.

Health Minister, Her Excellency Lyonpo Dechen Wangmo said that the much needed support from development partners in such times is a genuine sign of solidarity. “The support will greatly help the Ministry of Health in scaling up its testing capacity and enhancing its preparedness to efficiently counter possible community transmission of the virus,” Lyonpo said.

Asian Development Bank Country Director Kanokpan Lao-Araya said, “These medical supplies are procured from ADB’s initial assistance to support the Royal Government of Bhutan’s efforts to monitor and contain the COVID-19 pandemic, provide effective treatments, and protect healthcare workers. In addition to this, the ADB has provided additional assistance in collaboration with other development partners, including additional grant for procuring medical supplies and countercyclical support to meet the needs of people most affected at this challenging time.”

UNICEF Bhutan Representative Dr. Will Parks said: “These critical supplies will allow our courageous health workers in the frontline and in health care facilities to safely respond to the pandemic. Health workers need and deserve protection and by keeping them safe, we are also protecting children, families and entire communities.”