Tripoli, Libya, 22 September 2023 – In the wake of catastrophic floods that had a devastating impact on Libya's east coast, the World Health Organization (WHO) is taking swift action to assist affected communities. WHO is supporting urgent efforts to restore access to health care and control the spread of infectious diseases, especially among the tens of thousands of people who have been displaced and are now living in shelters.

“The magnitude of this catastrophe is staggering,” said Dr Ahmed Zouiten, WHO Representative in Libya. “The need for swift, unified action cannot be overstated. We are collaborating closely with our partners, national authorities and the international community to deliver vital aid, save lives and reinstate essential health care services during this profoundly challenging period.”

A United Nations interagency team has assessed the affected areas and identified four priorities: providing clean water, preventing disease outbreaks, restoring primary health care services and establishing mental health and psychosocial support for survivors.