Geneva, The World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned of a dangerous shortage in the supply of oxygen in Ukrainian hospitals.

“The oxygen supply situation is nearing a very dangerous point in Ukraine. Trucks are unable to transport oxygen supplies from plants to hospitals across the country, including the capital Kyiv,” a WHO statement said today.

“The majority of hospitals could exhaust their oxygen reserves within the next 24 hours. Some have already run out. This puts thousands of lives at risk.”

The oxygen is needed to treat patients with a range of ailments, including Covid-19.

The war has increased demand in the country by as much as 25%, the UN health agency said.

The WHO said it is working to alleviate the shortage by tapping into its regional supply network, but that safe passage across Ukraine needed to be ensured.

“It is imperative to ensure that lifesaving medical supplies – including oxygen – reach those who need them.”

Source: Oman News Agency