Christian Aid is asking for help to support the world's poorest nations as they face the coronavirus pandemic.

The virus has spread to most of the countries that Christian Aid operates in, including India, Bangladesh, Kenya and Iraq. 

The organisation said it expects that all its partner organisations will be gravely impacted. 

Christian Aid explained that poor health systems, ongoing conflict, and densely populated areas exacerbate the seriousness of this pandemic around the world. 

Nick Guttmann, Christian Aid's head of humanitarian, said: "Many health facilities, at the local and national levels, have sub-optimal infection prevention and control measures, due in part to lack of water and sanitation facilities. 

"Further humanitarian needs may also occur because of excessive pressure on these stretched health-care systems, putting strain on other essential services such as education, and many other aspects that add to the difficulties that existed prior to the pandemic.
 
"Many governments have restricted the movement of individuals with varying degrees of lockdown which has meant many individuals are unable to leave their homes in order to make a living. Unfortunately, many of these countries don't have safety nets to support these people. It is at times like these - testing times - that we need to recognise we are all in this together."

Christian Aid will make adjustments to projects it's already doing in poorer countries to put coronavirus-related interventions in place such as handwashing stations and temporary health clinics.

The charity will also work closely with community and faith leaders to engage as many people as possible to help prevent the virus spreading.