The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) says it raised more than US$263 million in donations last year to provide member countries with technical support and supplies to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a statement Tuesday, PAHO indicated that the sum comprised direct financial support, contributions channelled through the World Health Organization, and agreements negotiated with PAHO member states, with support from international financial institutions.
The sum also included US$70.8 million in PAHO member countries' contributions to fund their respective public health responses to COVID-19.
According to PAHO, the funds were used to purchase essential supplies and equipment, including 119 shipments of personal protective equipment to 34 nations and 21.4 million COVID-19 PCR tests for 36 countries and territories.