(The Daily Star/ANN)---The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has donated personal protective equipment (PPE) and other emergency medical supplies to the Bangladesh government to support preparedness and response in regard to the Covid-19 outbreak in Cox's Bazar.

The donations include gowns, masks, goggles, gloves, hand sanitisers and disinfectants, UNHCR said.

They have been provided to both the Civil Surgeon's Office and the Sadar Hospital in Cox's Bazar district today, the UN refugee agency said.

Massive efforts are underway in Bangladesh to provide necessary protection to frontline health workers in the district who are serving the needs of both local Bangladeshis and Rohingya refugees.

"We are grateful for this timely and crucial support from UNHCR," said Dr Mohiuddin, medical superintendent of Sadar Hospital in Cox's Bazar.

UNHCR is also supporting authorities to increase the intensive care capacity of the hospital, with 10 ICU beds as well as eight high dependency beds, and provisions for the staff.

In Cox's Bazar, UNHCR is working in close collaboration with the Bangladesh government to prepare medical facilities for those who may be affected by the virus. The efforts include establishing an isolation and treatment centre currently under construction in Ukhiya.

"The outbreak is a global challenge that must be addressed through international solidarity and cooperation. We continue to work hand in hand with the government authorities to ensure the best response possible for all affected communities," said Sandra Harlass, UNHCR's senior public health officer in Cox's Bazar.

UNHCR and partner agencies have also provided additional resources to local health centres in Ukhiya and Teknaf, as well as to primary health centres within the camps, where around one million Rohingya refugees are currently being housed.