Bahir Dar, 24 August 2013 –  To review the scale of emergency and potential health risks following the flood that occurred in South Gondar and Oromia zones of the Amhara Region due to heavy rains and ensuing overflow of riverbanks, Dr Pierre M’Pele-Kilebou, WHO Representative to Ethiopia, led a WHO mission to the Amhara Regional Health Bureau on 24 August 2013, comprising  Dr Kebba Omar Jaiteh, Coordinator of Disaster Prevention and Response Department; Dr Akiko Sato, Nutrition Programme Officer; Dr Kumie Alene, Surveillance Officer and Mrs Loza Mesfin, Communication Officer.

The rapid impact and risk assessment conducted by the Regional Health Bureau and WHO revealed that the floods have affected thousands of people in the region, especially Kemissie Woreda, where the health center was damaged resulting an interruption of services, which could at such a critical time, cause different types of disease outbreaks.  

In light of the fact that the rains are expected to continue into September 2013, the Amhara Regional Health Bureau and WHO agreed to jointly engage in preparedness, response and recovery activities.  WHO is providing two inter-agency emergency health kits which can each treat 10 000 people for three months, and three diarrheal disease kits with items such as oral rehydration solution (ORS), medical gloves, IV fluids and antibiotics, as well as urgent support to rebuild the Kemissie Health Center. 

The Regional Health Bureau, with WHO support, is finalizing an emergency response action plan in partnership with the UN System and other partners to adequately respond to the unfolding emergency.

For more information, please contact:  Dr. Kebba Omar Jaiteh jaitehk [at] et.afro.who.int Tel: +251-911 01 8687 or Loza Mesfin lozam [at] et.afro.who.int;Tel: +251-911 144 194.