Cyclone Roanu hit southern and south-eastern parts of Bangladesh on Saturday 21st May, causing widespread floods, heavy rain and strong winds in coastal areas. Over 500,000 people have been affected, many of whom have moved to shelters and places of safety. These communities now face increased risks to their health.
WHO Bangladesh is working with the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and other partners to monitor the situation at the national level. WHO field staff is working closely with local officials and medical teams on the ground to help coordinate and provide any necessary support. Emergency health kits and medical supplies were already available in the affected areas as part of WHOs divisional preparedness plan 2015-2016 and are being distributed.