The number of Covid-19 cases in Yemen is increasingly rapidly, with the latest figures suggesting that almost 2,000 people have now been confirmed to have the virus, of which 500 cases have been fatal. Indicators continue to suggest that the number of confirmed cases and deaths reported fall below actual numbers.
The pandemic is affecting food availability and access to market supplies, as well as income-generating opportunities, leaving many in dire need of humanitarian aid to survive.
The situation in Yemen is already one of the worst humanitarian crises in decades. It is the world’s largest human induced crisis and has caused widespread displacement, hunger, disease outbreaks and severe economic decline. There are very real fears that the Covid-19 outbreak could completely cripple an already struggling nation.
With the healthcare sector in Yemen on the brink of collapse, many exhibiting symptoms of the virus are unable to seek treatment. Many people are also continuing to delay seeking treatment because of the perceived stigma of seeking care and risks of doing so.
Islamic Relief have ramped up support in the country in accordance with the increase in cases. Procuring and distributing oxygen and personal protective equipment remains a priority.
Recent measures we’re taking include implementing an emergency food assistance programme in Aden, as many in the area struggle to find food.
We’ve also recently launched infection prevention and control training for healthcare workers, to provide frontline staff with essential information on how to best manage the virus.
Islamic Relief is also working to support those in quarantine centres- we have supported almost 800 people in quarantine centres in Sana’a and Dhamar with ready-to-eat meals, hygiene and dignity kits.
We are also planning to increase delivery of Covid-19 prevention supplies, such as handwash, water containers and bleach solution as well as continue to support those in quarantine centres and supply essential medical supplies to frontline healthcare workers.
We urgently need your support to continue delivering aid to some of the world’s most vulnerable people and help to contain the virus in a country which is on the brink of collapse: please donate now.