World Health Day: Statement by Commissioner Stella Kyriakides

Today, on World Health Day, Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides, issued the following statement: “Our thoughts are with everyone around the world affected by the unprecedented health crisis we are experiencing. Our thoughts are with those suffering, the family and friends of those we have lost and the many millions around the world whose lives have had to drastically change. Today, as every day, our thoughts are also with the brave healthcare workers in the EU and around the world. Now, more than ever, we have cause to honour and salute them. I know that you are being put under unprecedented pressure and many hospitals are overburdened. To help ease some of this pressure, we have issued practical guidance to Member States to encourage and facilitate cross-border treatment of patients and the deployment of medical staff. By launching the EU joint procurements, we are supporting Member States in gaining access to more personal protective equipment for hand, body, eye and respiratory protection. Your tireless efforts during the coronavirus pandemic is inspiring and encouraging to us all. Thank you.” The full statement is available online.