Lebanon is once again reeling from a fuel tanker exploding in Akkar, killing at least 28 people and injuring 79 others. This tragedy comes as the country is in the throes of a devastating economic crisis. The situation has affected the population on all levels and most notably on the access to essential commodities, including medication. To address this need, International Medical Corps is working to provide critical medications, medical supplies and healthcare services.
The explosion in Akkar has exacerbated the devastating economic crisis. This crisis has left the 7 million inhabitants of Lebanon, including the approximately 855,000 Syrian refugees, with limited access to medication. The medication shortage ranges from those used to treat acute diseases in primary healthcare, to cancer and immunology diseases.
International Medical Corps, which was already on the ground providing healthcare, mental health and gender-based violence support, is now responding to the needs of those affected by this latest explosion in Akkar and also addressing the health needs around the country due to the ongoing economic crisis. We are mobilizing critically needed medicines and supplies to address the needs across Lebanon.
International Medical Corps has been operating in Lebanon since 2006 and has played a key role providing relief to people affected by crisis in the years since. Today, International Medical Corps' health, mental health, and gender-based violence prevention and response activities address the needs of refugees and vulnerable Lebanese host communities. Across activities, training is core to our work, building local capacity to address needs long-term.
