Together we are protecting Rohingya refugees from COVID-19

Dear John,

COVID-19 is an unprecedented threat to Rohingya refugees living in crowded camps. To respond to this pandemic, UNHCR and its partners have opened the first two Severe Acute Respiratory Infection Isolation and Treatment Centres for refugees and Bangladeshi communities in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, which shelters more than 860,000 Rohingya refugees.

Hinako Toki, Senior Operations Manager for UNHCR at Cox’s Bazar said:

“While there are cases in both the camps and the host community, now people have a place to come for isolation and proper treatment, where they can recover and return to their communities. This will keep the community safe. This has been a truly collective effort and achievement”

UNHCR’s support in the opening of the facility gained praise from the Government as well, when the Deputy Commissioner of Cox’s Bazar District Mr. Md. Kamal Hossain thanked UNHCR for making it happen. He stated that:

“From the Government side, we are very grateful to UNHCR. In this urgent COVID-19 situation, UNHCR has made this facility which will help many COVID-19 positive patients, both inside and outside of the camps”.

Watch this video from Kutupalong →

Thanks to your help, UNHCR is supporting the Government of Bangladesh in its efforts to combat COVID-19, and responding to the clinical needs of those with the most severe symptoms. A total of 12 isolation and treatment centres will be constructed, with space for approximately 1,900 beds for refugees and host community.

UNHCR and its partners have also provided lifesaving resources and support, including personal protective equipment, to national health care facilities in Cox’s Bazar District, as well as to primary health centres within the Rohingya refugee camps.

Your support helps us make an impact for Rohingya refugees who are vulnerable to COVID-19. Keep up to date and encourage your friends and family to join us in protecting those forced to flee their homes around the world.