Humanitarian help for COVID-19 in the Pacific

The first Australian humanitarian workers have been deployed overseas, after more than half were evacuated to Australia due to the COVID-19 outbreak. They're assisting with contact tracing, as well as teaching healthcare workers to use protective equipment and cleaning techniques to safeguard themselves from infection.

Health workers test member of community for coronavirus. Source: AP

A spokesperson told SBS News 280 million dollars has been redirected from Australia’s existing international development program to provide an immediate response to COVID-19.

Australia has delivered around 170,000 essential medical supplies to Pacific island countries, including respirators, surgical masks, thermometers and testing kits.

And you can keep up to date on the coronavirus in your language at sbs.com.au/coronavirus

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