KUALA LUMPUR: The United States yesterday donated personal protective equipment (PPE) kits worth RM245,000 to the Health and Defence ministries.

The 10,000 PPE kits are to protect healthcare workers should an influenza pandemic break out.

The kits were received by Director-General of Health Tan Sri Dr Ismail Merican and armed forces Health Services Medical Director Brigadier-General Dr Samsudin Suir-man.

Dr Ismail said the contribution complemented the ministry's response to threats like avian and pandemic influenza.

"There is growing concern over the threat of an influenza pandemic which could lead to devastating consequences. Thus, being prepared is the key to reducing the impact of such threats," he said after receiving the kits from US embassy charge d'affaires David B. Shear.
The kits comprise head-to-toe sterile protective wear, including masks, goggles and shoe covers.





Shear said the PPE kits had been proven effective in reducing the spread of disease.

"With these kits, doctors and nurses can treat victims without fearing for their personal safety.

"This presentation is symbolic of our commitment to working with Malaysia in preparing for pandemic flu."