New Delhi/Beijing/Pyongyang: Expressing concern at the COVID-19 outbreak in North Korea, the World Health Organization today said it was ready to support the government and the people of North Korea [Democratic People’s Republic of Korea] to respond to the pandemic and save lives.
WHO stated it was awaiting information from the national focal person for International Health Regulations (IHR) about the outbreak.
Earlier North Korean state media reported 21 new deaths on May 14, 2022, while an additional 174,400 people had symptoms, like a fever, that could be caused by COVID-19. A total of 524,400 people with Covid-like symptoms were reported in the country since late last month, a New York Times report published today.
Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh, Regional Director, WHO South-East Asia, took note of reports by KCNA, the official DPRK news agency, about deaths and a large number of people with fever.
“We stand committed to assist our Member country, as needed, by providing technical support to scale up testing, strengthen case management, implement situation-specific public health and social measures, and provide essential medical supplies and medicines,” the Regional Director said.
WHO had supported the country develop its national strategic preparedness and response plan for COVID-19.
“With the country yet to initiate COVID-19 vaccination, there is a risk that the virus may spread rapidly among the masses unless curtailed with immediate and appropriate measures,” Dr Singh said.
WHO had supported DPR Korea develop a COVID-19 vaccine deployment plan along with partner organizations – UNICEF and GAVI. The plan was reviewed and approved by a multi-partner body at the regional level, making DPR Korea eligible to receive COVID-19 vaccines through COVAX.
Meanwhile, amidst some reports that DPRK requested anti-epidemic supplies from China, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian told reporters in Beijing today that China was ready to work with the DPRK and the rest of the international community “to support one another, enhance cooperation and secure a joint victory in the battle against the pandemic”.
– global bihari bureau
