Thread by @WHO

Daily media briefing on #2019nCoV with @DrTedros pscp.tv/w/cQ10RTI2MTAy…

@DrTedros "WHO is sending testing kits, masks, gloves, respirators & gowns to countries in every region. However, the 🌍 is facing severe disruption in the market for personal protective equipment. Demand is up to 100x higher than normal & prices are up to 20x higher"-@DrTedros #2019nCoV

@DrTedros "This situation has been exacerbated by widespread, inappropriate use of PPE outside patient care. As a result, there are now depleted stockpiles & backlogs of 4-6 months. Global stocks of masks & respirators are now insufficient to meet the needs of WHO & our partners"-@DrTedros

@DrTedros "WHO estimates that global frontline health emergency responders will require approximately 7% to 10% of market capacity. This percentage may be higher for other critical supplies.
Frontline #healthworkers in #China require the bulk of PPE supplies"-@DrTedros #2019nCoV

@DrTedros "I spoke to the Pandemic Supply Chain Network, which incl. manufacturers, distributors & logistics providers, to ensure that PPE supplies get to those who need them. The network is focusing initially on surgical masks because of the extreme demand & market pressures"-@DrTedros

@DrTedros "We are appreciative of companies that have taken the decision to only supply masks to medical professionals.

There is limited stock of PPE, and we need to make sure we get it to the people who need it most, in the places that need it most"-@DrTedros #2019nCoV

@DrTedros "The first priority is #healthworkers.

The second priority is those who are sick or caring for someone who is sick.

WHO discourages stockpiling of PPE in countries and areas where transmission is low"-@DrTedros #2019nCoV

@DrTedros "We call countries and companies to work with WHO to ensure fair and rational use of supplies, and the rebalancing of the market.

We all have a part to play in keeping each other safe"-@DrTedros #2019nCoV