ADB approves the funding of $2 million to combat Novel Coronavirus

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved the funding of USD 2 million to combat the spread of novel coronavirus (nCoV). The funds will support the efforts to stop the outspread of novel coronavirus (nCoV) by supplementing ongoing regional technical assistance and strengthening response capacity in China, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Myanmar. The funds will also help in boosting the supply of diagnostic and laboratory equipment for rapid testing to help in fight against the outbreak.

The assistance will fund the development of recommendations for improved outbreak investigation and surveillance, including in rural areas, and the strengthening of health systems’ resilience and capacity for epidemic response.

ADB in collaboration with World Health Organisation and other regional experts will also recognize the areas for coordinated responses as well as possible further financial assistance to improve the situation caused by nCoV.