Ramstein Air Base in Germany sent an En-Route Patient Staging System (ERPSS) to Aviano Air Base in Italy over the weekend. The ERPSS will be delivered to the Italian Ministry of Defense to aid with the country's ongoing battle against coronavirus.
The 86th Airlift Wing C-130J Super Hercules from Ramstein Air Base transported the system which can be set up as either a mobile or fixed operation. It provides 10 patient holding/staging beds and can support a maximum throughput of 40 patients in a 24-hour period.
"The COVID-19 pandemic requires that we work with our Allies and partners to meet the challenges together," said Gen Jeff Harrigian, commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe. "This effort demonstrates our mutual support as we team together in response to this public health crisis."
As of Monday morning, Italy had 59,138 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 5,476 deaths — more than any other country in the world. It surpassed the death toll in China, the original epicenter of the virus, last week.
"We are working closely with our Italian friends, the Department of State and U.S. European Command to ensure we provide the right equipment in a safe and timely manner. It's our privilege to support the Italian response, and our continued commitment reflects the values of the American people to provide assistance whenever and wherever it is needed."
The ERPSS system comes with seven days of medical supplies, operates within two tents, and can achieve initial operating capability within one hour of notification. This particular configuration includes a 15-day resupply pallet.
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The US Air Force flew this patient staging center to Italy to help 1

The US Air Force flew this patient staging center to Italy to help 2

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