Since the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the World Health Organization’s Surveillance System for Attacks on Health Care (SSA) has documented 31 attacks on health care facilities.
The joint statement, signed by the heads of UNICEF, the UN Population Fund (UNFPA), and the World Health Organization (WHO), described the assaults as acts of “unconscionable cruelty.”
According to WHO data, 24 health facilities were damaged or destroyed and five ambulances hit, leaving 12 people dead and 34 injured.
Mariupol Hospital Strike Kills Three
One of the most devastating incidents occurred in Mariupol, where an attack on a children’s hospital killed at least three people, including a young girl. The UN reproductive health agency confirmed that two other maternity hospitals in Ukraine had already been destroyed before this strike.
“Attacks on health care and health workers directly impact people’s ability to access essential services — especially women, children, and vulnerable groups,” the UN statement said.
Rising Health Care Needs Amid War
Since the war began, more than 4,300 births have taken place in Ukraine, and an estimated 80,000 women are expected to give birth in the next three months, according to UN data.
The agencies warned that oxygen and medical supplies are running dangerously low, placing the already strained health care system at risk of collapse.
“We call for an immediate ceasefire, which includes unhindered access so that people in need can access humanitarian assistance. A peaceful resolution to end the war in Ukraine is possible,” the statement urged.
Covid-19 Concerns in Conflict Zones
The UN also highlighted the risk of Covid-19 being neglected as the conflict continues. Aid workers stressed the need for ongoing vaccination, polio immunisation, and delivery of life-saving medicines both inside Ukraine and for refugees crossing into neighbouring countries.
Vaccination coverage remains low: only 35% of Ukrainians are fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Among neighbouring countries receiving refugees, Moldova has the lowest vaccination rate at 29%, while Hungary has the highest at 66%.
