The tsunami and after: WHO’s role
Health systems in many of the affected countries had been devastated. For example, in Aceh, Indonesia, 53 of the 244 health facilities were destroyed or severely incapacitated. Fifty-seven of the 497 provincial health office staff died, while 59 were reported missing. WHO assisted the health sectors of the affected countries, at their request, to strengthen their resources and set up systems where they had been destroyed. In meeting the needs of the affected areas, WHO also provided technical guidelines and medical supplies. Resources were mobilized in partnership with the government health authorities.