The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed concern over an expected health emergency in Ukraine amid the Russian invasion of the country.
"Amid the conflict rapidly unfolding in Ukraine, the WHO Regional Office for Europe reiterates its deepest concern for the safety, health and well-being of all civilians impacted by the crisis in the country and possibly beyond," the WHO regional office for Europe said in a February 24 statement, adding any further escalation could result in a humanitarian catastrophe.
"Any further escalation could result in a humanitarian catastrophe in Europe, including a significant toll in terms of casualties as well as further damage to already fragile health systems," the office added.
"WHO/Europe is working closely with all UN partners in rapidly scaling up readiness to respond to the expected health emergency triggered by the conflict, protecting our staff, and minimizing disruptions to the delivery of critical health care services," it said.