In response to the recent earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, the World Health Organization (WHO) has taken action to provide essential medical supplies to the affected areas. A total of 72 metric tons of trauma and emergency surgery supplies, valued at USD 826,000, have been delivered to both countries to support ongoing relief efforts.

The first flight carrying 37 metric tons of supplies was dispatched to Turkey on 9 February, while a second flight carrying 35 metric tons of supplies was sent to Syria on 11 February. The third flight, scheduled to reach Syria on 12 February, is expected to carry 37 metric tons of emergency health supplies to help an additional 300,000 people.

The supplies, including treatments, are designed to treat injuries sustained during the earthquakes and illnesses such as pneumonia, which is expected to rise in the coming days and weeks. The supplies also follow WHO's immediate release of pre-positioned medical and surgical supplies in Syria to 16 hospitals treating survivors of the earthquake in the northwest of the country.

WHO has released over USD 16 million from the Contingency Funding for Emergencies, including USD 3 million within hours of the disaster. The 110 metric tons of supplies are being sent from the WHO Global Logistics Hub located in the International Humanitarian City in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The flights are being provided by the IHC and are expected to provide a vital link to those affected by the earthquakes.

In conclusion, the life-saving health supplies are critical for treating the wounded and providing urgent care to those affected by the earthquakes in both countries. The WHO is grateful for the support and partnership with the IHC, the Dubai Government, and the Government of the United Arab Emirates to transport the supplies quickly to those in greatest need. The total supplies delivered by the three flights are expected to reach 100,000 people and 120,000 urgent surgical interventions in both countries.