Local residents and IDPs report that the seasonal flu, which began in the rainy season in the western part of Demoso, continues to be prevalent.
According to the IDPs, the outbreak of seasonal flu began in early June and has continued to affect the region since then.
A displaced student in western Demoso, who is suffering from seasonal flu, said, “I missed a week of class due to the flu last week, and I still haven’t fully recovered. However, I have to go to school because I’m worried about missing lessons. My mother and several of my friends are also suffering from the flu.”
An IDP from Yaung Chi Oo IDP camp in the western part of Demoso said: “I have been feeling unwell for about a month.”
U Zaw Min Htike from the Kyay Lat Myay group, which is assisting the IDPs, said, “During our visits to these villages with the IDPs, we observed many people suffering from the flu. Their main need is medicine.”
Despite the urgent need for medicine, U Zaw Min Htike went on to explain the challenges IDPs face in obtaining it.
He said: “We can buy medicine now, but prices are extremely high. A medication that used to cost Ks 1,000 has risen to Ks 3,000, and something worth Ks 10,000 now costs around Ks 30,000. However, we can’t purchase as much as we need. Everyone is facing difficulties because roads and bridges have been destroyed by mines.”
According to the CDM nurse from the village clinic, the flu is more prevalent in western Demoso this year compared to last. In addition to the need for medicine, there is a greater demand for assistance to implement preventive measures and health education activities.
Residents, including IDPs in Karenni State, are facing increased hardships as they have endured both the impacts of war and flooding.
In addition, the residents said that they are facing difficulties due to the rising prices of commodities, including rice as a result of poor road transportation.
Aid workers said that IDPs in Karenni State still require medicine and basic food supplies.
Sent by NMG