Medics train for cholera response in Worcestershire before deployment

In Worcestershire, NHS medics are participating in a simulated cholera outbreak exercise to prepare for deployments in conflict zones like Gaza and Ukraine. This training involves around 30 doctors and nurses who will set up a treatment clinic to manage live-actor patients, aiming to prevent the spread of cholera. The exercise is organized by UK-Med, a medical aid charity that has been actively involved in providing healthcare in disaster-stricken areas. UK-Med operates two field hospitals in Gaza, where they have treated over 150,000 individuals. The organization collaborates with the UK government to respond to international health crises, emphasizing the importance of readiness for infectious disease outbreaks in regions with compromised health infrastructure. Melanie Johnson, deputy health director, highlighted the prevalence of such outbreaks in conflict zones, underscoring the need for medics to be equipped to handle both traumatic injuries and infectious diseases. The exercise will also see participation from international delegates, including an Ethiopian emergency medical team and representatives from the UK Public Health Rapid Support Team. Their involvement signifies a collaborative effort to enhance emergency medical responses globally. Minister of State for Development, Anneliese Dodds, acknowledged the critical role of UK aid workers in providing care in dangerous environments, reinforcing the commitment to support vulnerable populations. This training initiative reflects the UK's dedication to improving its emergency medical capabilities and ensuring that healthcare professionals are well-prepared to face the challenges posed by humanitarian disasters worldwide.