Radio-nuclear Threats in Ukraine and the Health Sector’s Preparedness to Respond to Nuclear Disaster

Abstract Objectives To estimate and improve Ukraine’s health sector’s preparedness to respond to radiation and nuclear emergencies. Methods Field expert assessments and analytical methods were used. Results In September 2022, the WHO evaluation mission to Ukraine visited several critical regions to review the current state of health sector preparedness for a nuclear emergency and revealed many defects and items for improvement. The provision of radiation control equipment was considered for ambulance teams, admissions departments/emergency departments in designated hospitals, and tertiary level hospitals, and for National and Regional Public Health Laboratories. For cases of mass casualty, WHO procured 20 decontamination tents for the country. Training courses for medical specialists and decision-makers were launched. Conclusions The WHO mission was crucial in assessing the overall state of preparedness for CBRN threats and directing forces and resources to improve it. Donor assistance in the form of equipment for dosimetric monitoring and diagnostics of emergency-related disorders contributes to improving the preparedness of the health system of Ukraine to an adequate response to the threats of radiation and nuclear emergencies.