It has been more than a week since the devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar and neighbouring countries and people are continuing to face disruption and dealing with the long road to recovery.
The people of Myanmar were already facing serious humanitarian and health challenges. The earthquake has significantly exacerbated these issues.
On behalf of Burnet Institute, director and CEO Professor Brendan Crabb AC said his thoughts were with the people of Myanmar and neighbouring countries during this challenging time.
“As part of our immediate response plan, we are identifying areas where we can best contribute our expertise, in partnership with local communities and organisations in the region where we work,” he said.
Burnet staff in Myanmar are continuing to deliver existing programs, which are more critical than ever, and essential needs packs have been incorporated into these services, including home birthing kits, personal and menstrual hygiene products, and food and nutrition packages.
Current project activities include:
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Distributing essential needs kits including menstrual hygiene, temporary shelter, cooking utensils, and sanitation materials to people in Mandalay.
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Adolescent mental health support. Nearly 30% of young people in Myanmar have symptoms of depression or anxiety and the earthquake is expected to exacerbate these issues. Our community-based mental health service provides access to psychological first aid, safe spaces, peer support, and referral pathways for young people.
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Strengthening disability inclusion in health systems. An estimated 13% of Myanmar’s population live with disability. Burnet is partnering with people with disabilities, caregivers, and local organisations to build inclusive health systems that address access barriers to services.
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Sexual and reproductive health programs. There are high rates of preventable sexually transmitted infections, unintended pregnancies, and low contraceptive use among youth in Myanmar. Burnet’s is co-designing a youth-led model, which includes training for support workers and the distribution of essential items such as menstrual hygiene products, condoms and HIV self-tests.
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Hepatitis C testing and treatment, particularly among people who inject drugs. With hepatitis C prevalence at 56% among people who inject drugs, Burnet is expanding access to testing, treatment, and harm reduction in partnership with the Myanmar Liver Foundation.
As already limited health resources are being diverted to the most heavily impacted, these essential services will help provide stability to communities facing numerous challenges in the weeks and months ahead.
“We remain committed to assessing the needs of local communities and adapting our response, guided by our team in Myanmar,” Professor Crabb said.
“We thank our collaborators and partners for their continued support and assistance.”
If you would like to support our team, who are providing assistance to people affected, please visit Burnet’s Myanmar earthquake response appeal page.