WHO donates diagnostic equipment to support Maldives’ COVID-19 response

Health Minister Ahmed Naseem (R) and WHO Representative to Maldives Dr. Nazneen Anwar (L) exchange documents at the handover of medical equipment donated by WHO on July 5, 2021. (Photo/Health Ministry)

World Health Organization (WHO), on Monday, donated additional resources to aid Maldives in its efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19, including 11 GeneXpert systems.

According to Health Ministry, the latest donation includes 11 GeneXpert systems, 10 autoclaves, 19,500 test kits, equipment needed to manage vaccine cold chain, and six motorbikes - which will be used by the Rapid Response Team (RRT).

The donation was handed over to Health Minister Ahmed Naseem by WHO Representative to Maldives Dr. Nazneen Anwar in a ceremony at the Health Ministry earlier this Monday.

Health Minister Ahmed Naseem (R) and WHO Representative to Maldives Dr. Nazneen Anwar (L) exchange documents at the handover of medical equipment donated by WHO on July 5, 2021. (Photo/Health Ministry)

Health Ministry stated that with the 11 new GeneXpert systems received this Monday, Maldives will be able to expand COVID-19 testing to regional hospitals in 18 atolls.

Meanwhile, the autoclaves will allow for safe disposal of medical waste in 10 islands, and the motorbikes will speed up the work of the RRT, said Health Ministry.

WHO has provided key support needed by Maldives to strengthen its COVID-19 response, and has ensured a steady stock of medical equipment, test kits and medical consumables.