War in Ukraine, doctors in Kiev receive WHO training on chemical weapons damage

By Cristiano Antonino On May 26, 2022

WHO concerned about the use of chemical weapons in the war in Ukraine: doctors in the capital have undergone training on chemical readiness and response, conducted by specialists from the World Health Organisation

This was announced by the director of the Ukrainian Department of Health Valentina Ginzburg.

War in Ukraine, the importance of emergency response readiness to chemical weapons damage

“This is a two-day intensive course aimed at strengthening chemical readiness and the ability of health workers to respond quickly to such threats,” said Valentina Ginzburg.

Participants in the first training were employees of the Centre for Emergency Care and Disaster Medicine, as well as hospitals that have the appropriate base to provide medical care to chemical victims.

According to Valentina Ginzburg, during the training, the Kiev doctors acquired theoretical and practical knowledge about the classes and action of chemical agents, the use of personal protective equipment, decontamination, as well as the triage and provision of medical care for chemicals in the prehospital and early hospital stages.

“It is very important that this course organically combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills.

For example, it involves the simulation of an event with mass casualties due to the use of chemical agents.

In this way, our doctors will not only receive an algorithm to help in such cases, but literally ‘live’ it, so they will remember it well,” said Valentina Ginzburg.

She expressed hope that the residents of Kiev will never need the help of doctors in the event of mass chemical poisoning.

Use of chemical weapons in Ukraine: health workers must be prepared to provide qualified assistance in all circumstances

“Even in peacetime I was convinced that no knowledge and skills could be superfluous.

Now I am 300 per cent sure.

You should always study and doctor – every day, because people’s lives and health depend on them,” said Valentina Ginzburg.

She thanked the doctors who responded to the offer to improve their professional level and, separately, the World Health Organisation for the opportunity.

“When I attended the lectures, I was personally convinced of the professionalism of the teaching material and the usefulness of this information.

Thank you trainers, thank you WHO for your indifference and willingness to share experiences! ” said Valentina Ginzburg.