Thai mercy mission touches down in Burma with help, supplies and hope

A group of 30 medical workers from the Kingdom country arrived in Burma yesterday, after its government asked Bangkok to send assistance to victims of Cyclone Nargis.

The 30-strong medical team will operate a humanitarian mission in Kong Chien Kon and Jao districts.

These areas, the worst affected by Nargis, are in the south of the Irrawaddy delta, and two hours from Rangoon.

The medical team will remain in Burma until May 31. It will offer health care to all. Some members will look into the incidence of cholera and other communicable diseases.

Amulets

Ahead of their departure, which was delayed four hours yesterday, the local Red Cross gave the team Buddha amulets.

Their flight carried vital medical supplies prepared by the Red Cross. The material should allow the team to treat as many as 4,000 patients over its fortnight's stay. Other supplies have been donated by the private sector.

Public Health Ministry permanent secretary Dr Prat Boonyawongvirot visited Burma on Friday and he met the Burmese deputy health minister to discuss plans for the team's stay.

He says the Burmese asked Thailand to provide an electricity-generator for a hospital as well as latrines, water pumps, drugs and vaccines.