Interview: China's health assistance supports quake-affected Myanmar: health official

MANDALAY, Myanmar, May 10 (Xinhua) -- After a 7.9-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, public health assistance provided by China has been extremely helpful both psychologically and practically, a health official from Myanmar's Ministry of Health has said.

In a recent interview with Xinhua, Win Hlaing Phyo, a team leader of Myanmar's Ministry of Health's Central Epidemiological Unit in Mandalay working in the quake-affected areas, said the Chinese health team is systematic and reliable.

"The Chinese health team is testing water and mosquitoes to help us detect potential health risks early and enable cooperation on preventive measures," he said.

"We are cooperating with the Chinese health team mainly for post-quake outbreak control and epidemiological preventive measures, such as knowledge sharing on food hygiene, clean water, hand hygiene, and sanitation, as well as mosquito vector monitoring," he said.

The health official explained that unclean water and food can lead to serious health risks in the post-quake period, such as epidemics or infectious diseases, and that having these tested by Chinese health professionals has been very beneficial for the earthquake victims.

"They are very friendly, non-discriminatory, and willing to share knowledge and collaborate. Their presence is truly valuable," he added.

The tents provided by China have also been a great help for the survivors. "They have provided temporary tents, bathrooms, toilets, and waste disposal systems. These contributions are very effective," he said.

Regarding the language barrier, he noted that the Chinese health team brought enough translators to ensure smooth communication.

"We are truly encouraged that one of the world's leading countries in technology and medicine is helping us. Their work has been effective," he said.

"Testing is essential in healthcare. When we test, we get results. If we can identify potential public health threats, we can take preventive measures in time," he emphasized.

The 50-member Chinese health team, equipped with epidemic preventive supplies and equipment, arrived in Myanmar on April 19 to support local health prevention and control efforts following the deadly earthquake.

The team brought laboratory testing equipment and reagent supplies capable of conducting up to 80 different types of tests in Myanmar.

The Chinese health team carried out activities including water sample collection and testing, mosquito-borne disease monitoring, environmental sanitation checks, vaccination guidance, post-disaster psychological support, knowledge exchange with Myanmar public health professionals, and laboratory skills training.

As of May 9, the earthquake in Myanmar has claimed around 3,800 lives and injured over 5,100 people, with around 100 others remaining unaccounted for, official data showed. ■