The WHO Regional Office for the Americas (WHO/PAHO) has continued to deliver large amounts of equipment in supplies in the region.
In Guatemala, the office donated 25 oxygen concentrators to five hospitals. Oxygen in the treatment of SEVERE COVID-19 patients is crucial and oxygen concentrators that extract and purify oxygen from the air can prevent patients from going from severe to critical.
In Paraguay, the office delivered 250 000 antigen tests for SARS-CoV-2 detection, through the office’s Strategic Fund. The tests are based on detection of antigens in the body and will be used for mild or outpatient suspected cases. People with symptoms such as fever, headache, or general discomfort will be able to get tested receive the results in less than an hour.
In Peru, PAHO delivered Personal Protective Equipment, medical supplies to monitor COVID-19 cases, and additional equipment to strengthen surveillance and access to information. Part of the donation equipment to set up a COVID-19 situation room. 1 500 mask, 2 000 face shields for and 2 000 pulse oximeters were also delivered.
In Uruguay, the office has donated equipment equivalent to $550 000. The donation includes masks, gloves, goggles, infrared thermometers, stretchers, computer equipment, ultrasounds and other medical equipment.
WHO thanks all donors and partners who have contributed to fund the Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan to combat COVID-19. A special appreciation goes to Member States and other contributors who provided flexible funds, making it possible for WHO to deliver a coherent, strategic and broad response.
Read more about WHO’s work to strengthen the COVID-19 response in Guatemala, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay
Read more about WHO’s response to COVID-19