Attacks on Health Care in Myanmar

Protecting Health Facilities from Airstrikes and Shelling in Kayin State Health facilities across Kayin state have been repeatedly damaged or destroyed by airstrikes, artillery fire, and direct clashes since the February 2021 military coup. These attacks undermine care, displace communities, and threaten staff safety. This document suggests approaches to mitigate and prevent such violence.

What We Know

• Health facilities have been damaged or destroyed by the Myanmar Armed Forces,Arakan Army and the PDF using plane and drone delivered explosive weapons.
• Health workers are at risk of harm, either from direct attacks on health infrastructure or from being caught in the crossfire. 

Risks Identified.

• High in conflict zones or contested areas
• Public and charity-run facilities are often affected

Leads to loss of care, displaced staff, and destroyed supplies

Practical Tips

• Relocate vital supplies and equipment to safer areas when conflict escalates
• Reinforce facilities structurally and create underground or secure storage for medicine
• Establish early warning and evacuation plans
• Prepare mobile units or alternative service sites to maintain care continuity
• Comprehensive guidance on how to protect health care from drone attacks is available in Burmese and English.

Action to Take

• Use this guidance to train health staff, inform coordination calls, and display posters in clinics and field offices.
• Adapt protocols to fit your specific operating environment.

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