In efforts to respond to an outbreak of diphtheria among Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh that has seen more than 1,500 probable cases, including 21 deaths, WHO has released US$1.5 million from its Contingency Fund for Emergencies to help finance scaling up of health operations in Cox's Bazar over the next six months.

The World Health Organization has deployed additional staff and resources to respond to a rapidly spreading outbreak of diphtheria. "The Rohingya refugees are an extremely vulnerable population, with low routine vaccination coverage. WHO is applying a 'no regrets' policy when allocating resources to help prevent and protect communities from the spread of diphtheria and ensure that those who are sick receive critical care and treatment," said Dr Roderico Ofrin, Regional Emergency Director, WHO South-East Asia Regional Office. "The funds released will be crucial to sustaining our efforts until we receive more support from donors for this response."

WHO has deployed additional experts, procured hospital beds to accommodate more patients in diphtheria treatment centres, provided 1,345 vials of lifesaving diphtheria anti-toxins and 300 000 doses of antibiotics, and is working with health authorities to support ongoing vaccination efforts for both children and health workers.