world health day 2009

today, april 7, is world health day 2009:

"World Health Day 2009 focuses on the safety of health facilities and the readiness of health workers who treat those affected by emergencies. Health centres and staff are critical lifelines for vulnerable people in disasters - treating injuries, preventing illnesses and caring for people's health needs."

this day also commemorates the establishment of the world health organization by the united nations on april 7, 1948. the world health organization focuses on international public health issues.

in light of the earthquake that struck l'aquila yesterday, the world health day focus on the readiness of health workers to respond to "vulnerable people in disasters" couldn't be more timely or more appropriate!