Overcoming the Existing Challenges in the Eastern Mediterranean Region in the Fight Against COVID-19

Shrivastava, Saurabh Shrivastava Prateek

The cases of Corona Virus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) have been reported across all the regions of the world, with the European region and the American region being the most affected. Even though the current estimates pertaining to the outbreak in the Eastern Mediterranean appear significantly less in comparison to the global scenario, but we still have to acknowledge COVID-19 as a major cause of public health concern in the region. This is predominantly because most of the recently affected nations have been experiencing one or the other form of humanitarian emergencies resulting due to wars or conflicts. The presence of all these factors has significantly affected the various prevention and control dimensions, and the delay has been reported in the detection of cases, their isolation and contact tracing. In conclusion, in the fight against COVID-19 pandemic in the Eastern Mediterranean region, many strengthening and capacity building activities need to be carried out. It is the responsibility of the political leaders to acknowledge the prevailing vulnerabilities and accept a ceasefire and work together to reduce the risk of COVID-19 within their settings.