WHO Reinforces Commitment to Health Initiatives in Cox’s Bazar

Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh – In a concerted effort to bolster health programs for Rohingya refugees and host communities, Dr. Jamsheed Mohamed, WHO Representative a.i. to Bangladesh, conducted a vital visit to the WHO Emergency sub-office in Cox’s bazar from Dec. 8-10, 2024. The visit, encompassing key camp areas and discussions with local health officials, underscored WHO’s unwavering commitment to improving health outcomes in the region.

Strengthening Collaboration and Assessing Health Initiatives

Dr. Jamsheed’s itinerary included a courtesy visit to the Civil Surgeon, who praised the Cox’s Bazar Sub Office for its pivotal support, especially in human resources. Briefings from team leads and technical staff provided Dr. Jamsheed with a comprehensive overview of ongoing health initiatives, highlighting both successes and persistent challenges. these insights are crucial for strategizing future actions and prioritizing vital health interventions.For example, the support for human resources helps ensure there are enough healthcare workers available to treat the population, a major bottleneck for public health initiatives in the region.

As Dr. Jamsheed Mohamed noted, “Visiting Cox’s bazar has reinforced my belief in the power of collaboration and dedication. Together, we are making meaningful strides in improving health outcomes for both Rohingya refugees and host communities. Our commitment to effective health interventions and staff well-being remains unwavering.”

Dr. Jorge Martinez, Head of Sub Office, further detailed current WSO operations, offering additional outlook on the breadth of the work being done.

Image: WHO’s efforts in Cox’s Bazar.

hepatitis C and HPV Vaccination Campaigns Gain Momentum

A significant aspect of the visit focused on the progress of Hepatitis C surveillance and treatment. Dr. Jamsheed visited the Save the Children (SCI) PHC in Camp 21 and the IOM PHC in Camp 3,both key partners with WHO in the Hepatitis C response. Since the launch of surveillance in March 2024,a substantial 1,874 Hepatitis C RNA tests have been conducted,revealing 1,263 positive results. Encouragingly, 133 post-treatment tests showed no detectable Hepatitis C RNA, indicating successful treatment outcomes. Currently,761 individuals are actively undergoing treatment,showcasing the program’s reach and impact. WHO has supplied medications for 850 patients and is poised to procure drugs for an additional 19,760 patients, alongside crucial RT PCR kits and consumables, signaling a large scale commitment to eradicating this disease. This initiative addresses a critical health need,as Hepatitis C can lead to severe liver damage if left untreated. (Source: WHO Hepatitis C Fact Sheet)

• Key Statistic: 1,874 Hepatitis C RNA tests conducted since March 2024.
• Success Rate: 133 post-treatment tests showed no detectable Hepatitis C RNA.
• Ongoing Treatment: 761 individuals currently undergoing Hepatitis C treatment.

Furthermore, Dr. Jamsheed observed the ongoing HPV vaccination campaign targeting female Rohingya students (Grades 5-9) and out-of-school girls (ages 10-14) at Camp 21. He actively engaged with vaccinated girls and reviewed the verification process, demonstrating a commitment to ensuring the campaign’s effectiveness and safety. At Camp 3, discussions centered on cholera prevention and treatment, aligning with WHO’s collaborative efforts with the WASH sector through the Joint Assessment and Response Team (JART). The cholera outbreak is being addressed through heightened surveillance and improved data collection, crucial steps in containing and preventing further spread. A recent study published in The Lancet highlights the effectiveness of vaccination campaigns in preventing cholera outbreaks in refugee settings, further justifying WHO’s strategy (Source: The Lancet ).

Addressing dengue and Prioritizing Staff Well-being

Amid a nationwide surge in dengue cases, Dr. Jamsheed emphasized the importance of proactive prevention and treatment strategies. WHO has been instrumental in training healthcare workers to effectively identify,diagnose,treat,and refer dengue patients,playing a vital role in mitigating the impact of the outbreak.Hospital management expressed sincere gratitude for WHO’s support, particularly in the area of staff training, which equips them with the skills and knowledge necessary to handle the escalating dengue cases. Dengue fever is a growing public health concern and these specific skills-based training are effective for proper diagnoses (Source: CDC Dengue Information).

Dr. Hamim Tassdik, NPO, Emergency Preparedness and Response, IOM, stated, “Dr. Jamsheed’s visit to Cox’s Bazar is a sign of close collaboration between IOM and partners. WHO’s commitment to enhancing health initiatives and addressing the needs of Rohingya refugees is truly commendable.”

Recognizing the importance of a positive work habitat, Dr. Jamsheed participated in the WHO Healthy and Respectful Workplace Day on Dec. 10. He reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to staff well-being and cultural diversity, assuring staff that their concerns were being addressed through the establishment of a dedicated commission. This initiative underscores WHO’s holistic approach, recognizing that effective health interventions are intrinsically linked to the well-being and morale of its workforce.

Moving Forward: Lasting Outcomes Through Collaboration

Dr. Jamsheed’s visit to Cox’s Bazar signifies WHO’s profound dedication to fortifying health initiatives and fostering robust partnerships. The collective efforts are demonstrably improving the health and well-being of both Rohingya refugees and the host communities.This visit reinforces WHO’s critical role in emergency response, highlighting the tangible effectiveness of public health interventions in refugee settings and the paramount importance of staff well-being and cultural diversity in achieving long-term, sustainable outcomes. To learn more about WHO’s work and how you can support these initiatives, visit the World Health Institution website.

What creative solutions do you think can make the biggest impact on providing healthcare in contexts like Cox’s Bazar?

WHO’s Commitment to Rohingya Health: An Interview with Dr. amina Khan

We sat down with Dr.Amina Khan, a fictional but representative Senior Public Health advisor specializing in refugee health crises, to discuss the World Health Institution’s (WHO) recent efforts in Cox’s Bazar, bangladesh, aiding Rohingya refugees and host communities. Her insights shed light on the challenges,successes,and future directions of these vital health initiatives.

Understanding the health Crisis in Cox’s Bazar

Archyde: Dr. Khan, thank you for joining us.Could you paint a picture of the primary health challenges faced by Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar?

Dr. Khan: Certainly. The Rohingya refugee population, residing largely in makeshift settlements, faces a complex array of health issues. Malnutrition, communicable diseases like cholera and dengue, vaccine-preventable illnesses, and mental health concerns are rampant. Access to adequate healthcare, clean water, and sanitation remains a constant struggle, exacerbated by limited resources and overcrowding. The WHO and its partners are working tirelessly to address these pressing needs.

Spotlight on Hepatitis C and HPV Initiatives

Archyde: Recent reports highlight WHO’s efforts in tackling Hepatitis C and implementing HPV vaccination campaigns. Can you elaborate on these initiatives?

dr. Khan: Absolutely. Our Hepatitis C surveillance and treatment programme has made notable strides. Since March 2024, we’ve conducted nearly 1,900 RNA tests, identifying over 1,200 positive cases. The treatment success rate is encouraging, with many patients showing no detectable virus after treatment. We’re committed to scaling up this program with increased medication supplies and PCR testing kits. Concurrently, the HPV vaccination campaign targeting young girls is crucial for preventing cervical cancer later in life. Engaging with the girls and ensuring a safe vaccination process is paramount.

Addressing the Dengue Outbreak

Archyde: Bangladesh is experiencing a surge in dengue cases.How is WHO assisting in managing this outbreak within the Rohingya community?

Dr. Khan: The dengue outbreak is a serious concern. WHO has been actively involved in training healthcare workers to accurately diagnose, treat, and refer dengue patients. Early diagnosis and proper management are key to mitigating the impact of the outbreak. We are also working on prevention strategies, emphasizing mosquito control and community awareness programs.

The Importance of Collaboration and Staff Well-being

Archyde: Collaboration appears to be a recurring theme in these efforts. How crucial are partnerships in achieving sustainable health outcomes?

Dr. Khan: Collaboration is absolutely vital. We work closely with the Ministry of Health, other UN agencies like IOM, NGOs such as Save the Children, and local communities. Each partner brings unique expertise and resources to the table, allowing us to create a coordinated and effective response. Moreover, prioritizing the well-being of our own staff is equally crucial. A healthy and respectful workplace ensures that our teams can function effectively and provide the best possible care. Initiatives like the WHO Healthy and Respectful Workplace Day are testament to this commitment.

Looking Ahead: Sustainable Health solutions

Archyde: What are the long-term goals for WHO’s health initiatives in cox’s bazar? What challenges remain?

Dr. Khan: Our aim is to build a sustainable health system that can address the long-term health needs of both the Rohingya refugees and the host communities.This includes strengthening primary healthcare services, improving access to essential medicines, and promoting preventive health measures. Challenges persist, including resource constraints, logistical hurdles, and the evolving nature of the health crisis. However, through continuous monitoring, adaptation, and unwavering commitment, we believe we can make a lasting positive impact.

Archyde: What else do you hope the public understands about this crisis?

Dr. Khan: Beyond the statistics and programs, it’s crucial to remember the human element. These are individuals and families facing incredibly challenging circumstances. Their resilience and hope inspire us daily. Support for the health initiatives in Cox’s Bazar translates directly into improving their lives and futures. Consider how you can raise awareness or contribute to organizations working on the ground. What creative solutions do you think can make the biggest impact on providing healthcare in contexts like Cox’s Bazar? Share your ideas in the comments below.