The Red Cross rescue organizations and the Red Cross cantonal associations had trained volunteers with the required skills, according to a message from the SRK on Wednesday. The cantonal authorities coordinate the operations. Members of the Red Cross Service (RKD) are also on duty.
The current corona wave is a great challenge for health workers. In many cantons, the medical facilities are in a difficult situation and need support, according to the message. The SRK was therefore asked by the federal government whether it could support the health system with volunteers.
According to its own information, the SRK is one of a total of 192 national Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Compared to other humanitarian aid organizations, national societies have a special status under the Geneva Conventions: They work in partnership with their respective state authorities around the world.