The death toll in Myanmar and Thailand has risen sharply since a powerful earthquake hit the region.  The number of people killed in Myanmar has reached 1, 644.  The number of injured people is 3, 408 and 139 people are still missing.  The earthquake struck near Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city with a population of 1. 5 million people.  The death toll in Thailand has also increased to 17.  The epicenter of the earthquake was near Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city.  The earthquake had a magnitude of 7. 7.

        Relief efforts are in full swing, but there are significant challenges.  The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported that rescue operations are facing a severe shortage of medical supplies.  These supplies include trauma kits, blood bags, anesthetics, assistive devices, essential medicines, and tents for healthcare workers.  The situation is dire, and the full extent of the damage may not be known for weeks.  The International Rescue Committee's Myanmar director, Mohammed Riyas, expressed concern about the ongoing situation.  He stated that it may take weeks to fully understand the destruction caused by the earthquake.

        Countries from around the world have stepped up to provide aid.  China has sent 17 cargo trucks filled with shelter and medical supplies to Mandalay.  Additionally, China has deployed over 135 rescue personnel and experts, along with medical kits, generators, earthquake detectors, and drones.  China has also pledged around $13. 8 million in emergency aid.  Hong Kong has sent 51 search-and-rescue personnel, including firefighters and ambulance staff, along with two search-and-rescue dogs.  They have also brought 9 tons of equipment, including life detectors and satellite tracking systems.  The Hong Kong government has allocated HK$30 million ($3. 9 million) from its Disaster Relief Fund to support Myanmar.

        Russia has sent 120 rescuers and supplies to Yangon, Myanmar's largest city.  Russia's Health Ministry has also dispatched a medical team with specialists in various fields, as well as search and rescue teams with canine units and advanced search devices.  India has sent two C-17 military transport aircraft carrying a field hospital unit and 120 personnel to establish a 60-bed emergency treatment center in Mandalay.  India plans to send additional aircraft and ships with relief supplies, including rescue and medical teams.  Malaysia has offered to send 50 personnel to assist in identifying and providing aid to the worst-hit areas.  South Korea has pledged $2 million in humanitarian aid through international organizations.  New Zealand has committed to supporting relief efforts through the International Red Cross Movement.  The European Commission has released 2. 5 million euros ($2. 7 million) in initial emergency assistance, bringing the European Union's total humanitarian aid for Myanmar to over €35 million ($37. 8 million) this year.  Ireland has announced an aid package of €6 million ($6. 49 million), with funds allocated to various international relief organizations.

        Aid agencies are also playing a crucial role in the relief efforts.  The U. N. humanitarian affairs office has mobilized with other groups and allocated $5 million from a Central Emergency Response Fund for life-saving assistance.  The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has released 2 million Swiss francs ($2. 2 million) in emergency funds to support their work in Myanmar.  Despite the influx of international aid, local hospitals are struggling to cope with the influx of injured people.  There is a shortage of medical supplies, and people are struggling to find food and clean water.  Relief efforts have largely consisted of local volunteers trying to find loved ones and provide immediate assistance.

Aid pours in, but Myanmar's medical supplies are running low

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