The World Health Organization has issued a grave warning regarding the potential health crisis in Ukraine as the country grapples with its third winter of war following Russia's full-scale invasion. The ongoing Russian airstrikes have inflicted severe damage on Ukraine's energy and health care infrastructure, leaving millions of people vulnerable as temperatures plummet.
According to WHO officials, Ukraine is facing its most challenging winter yet, with a renewed emphasis on health being more crucial than ever. Since the commencement of Russia's invasion in February 2022, nearly 2,000 attacks on Ukraine's health care infrastructure have been recorded, significantly impacting the predominantly public health system.
The targeted attacks have not only damaged Ukraine's energy infrastructure but have also led to frequent power outages, raising concerns for the winter ahead. This situation could potentially jeopardize the storage and distribution of vaccines, resulting in a surge of vaccine-preventable diseases. Additionally, there are growing worries about water system contamination due to power outages and signs of antimicrobial resistance due to antibiotic misuse.
WHO is taking proactive measures to address these challenges by planning to install 15 heating units at hospitals at risk of further attacks and establishing a network of treatment clinics in areas with limited health care access. The agency is also working on providing generators and backup power options while assisting in the implementation of state-planned health system reforms.
Efforts have been concentrated in Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city in the east, which has been a frequent target of Russian attacks. WHO recently facilitated the donation of 23 ambulances to support medical services in frontline areas. Tragically, three individuals lost their lives and two were injured after Russia targeted Red Cross humanitarian vehicles in the Donetsk region.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for a united global response to the crisis, urging countries and international organizations not to turn a blind eye to the situation. He emphasized the need for collective action to compel Russia to cease its actions and seek peace.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues, WHO remains committed to providing essential support and resources to mitigate the health challenges faced by the population.
Follow AP’s coverage of the war in Ukraine at AP News
