The aggression by the Russian Federation in Ukraine, and continued military activities near nuclear power plants, has increased the threat of radio-nuclear incidents with a high risk of contaminating Moldovan territory. This could have a major negative impact on health and the environment in the country and will put on additional pressure on the health sector, which is already dealing with an increased demands due to the unprecedented movement of refugees from Ukraine.

This underlines the need to strengthen the preparedness and the capacity of the health sector to adequately respond to and address all potential emergencies and threats. The Ministry of Health (MoH), through the National Agency for Public Health (NAPH), has requested support from Switzerland to strengthen the capacity of the public health service sector to prevent and manage the risks associated with radio-nuclear hazards. The main needs are to equip NAPH departments and medical units with the necessary devices for early detection, assessment and monitoring of all radioactive emissions, as well as with protective equipment for medical staff working in contaminated areas. Furthermore, the capacity of public health professionals involved in emergency response needs strengthening.

The final beneficiaries of this intervention are the entire population of the Republic of Moldova and refugees from Ukraine. Direct beneficiraies are MoH and NAPH departments, whose capacities will be strengthened.

The primary target groups are public health specialists and medical workers deployed in potentially contaminated areas, benefiting from modern devices for early detection, assessment and monitoring of radioactive risks and personal protective equipment. Overally, some 1’600 health professionals will benefit through enhanced individual protection measures.

Outcome 1 (equipment):    With modern and properly used equipment, the national public health service is able to detect and respond appropriately to emergencies of radiological contamination at an early stage.

Outcome 2 (workforce):    The capacities of public health specialists and healthcare workers involved in reducing the hazards and consequences of radionuclear contamination are enhanced.

Risultati principali attesi:  

-    Procurement and endowment of the National Agency for Public Health with equipment for early detection, assessment and monitoring of radionuclear contamination hazards.

-    Handover and commissioning of the donated equipment.

-    Training of Trainers (ToT) in radiometry/dosimetry and in use of protective equipment for radio-nuclear l emergencies by an international trainer/ expert.

-    Training of public health professionals involved in early detection and risk reduction of radio-nuclear contamination.

Risultati fasi precedenti:   At the request of the MoH, the NAPH specialists, in collaboration with World Health Organisation (WHO) experts, identified the main needs of the public health sector to prevent and reduce the risks associated with the radio-nuclear and chemical hazards. A list of equipment for radioactive detection and protective materials for medical personnel working in contaminated areas, including training needs, was submitted by the Moldovan health authorities, and subsequently evaluated by Swiss Humanitarian Aid specialists, in collaboration with experts from a Swis Spiez Laboratory. Based on their recommendations, the list was updates and subsequently submitted in its final form for Swiss Support.

"Moldova, Capacity building of health professionals in emergency care", SDC Project Nr. 7F-10988.01

"Moldova, strengthening hospital capacities to address emergency health care issues in case of mass casualties due to an increased influx of refugees.", SDC Project Nr. 7F-10988.02

Humanitarian Health Working Group, WHO

Fase 1 15.10.2022 - 30.06.2024   (Completed)