World Health Day: UN Secretary General hails health workers

• Says “We stand with you”

The UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ today hailed health care workers  around Globe for  their tireless commitment and expertise during traumatic times.

In his My message to mark the world marks the  World Health Day, Mr. Guterres commended the nurses, midwives, technicians, paramedics, pharmacists, doctors, drivers, cleaners, administrators and many others, “ who work, day and night to keep us safe.”

He said: “Today, we are more deeply grateful than ever to all of you, as you work, around the clock, putting yourselves at risk, to fight the ravages of this pandemic.  2020 is the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife, and I want to recognize their specific expertise and commitment.

“We have all had reason to give thanks for the care and professionalism of nurses and midwives.  I know I do.  Nurses shoulder some of the biggest health‑care burdens.  They perform difficult work and endure long hours, while risking injury, infection and the mental health burden that accompanies such traumatic work.  They often provide comfort at the end of life.

“Midwives provide comfort at the beginning of life.  During a pandemic, their work is even more challenging, as you bring our newborns safely into this world.

“To the nurses and midwives of the world:  thank you for your work.

“:In these traumatic times, I say to all health care workers:  We stand with you and we count on you.  You make us proud; you inspire us.  We are indebted to you.  Thank you for the difference you are making, every day and everywhere.”