Locals forced to flee their homes due to the ongoing fighting in Kyaukphyu Township, Arakan State, are in urgent need of mosquito nets, according to people assisting the displaced.
Hundreds of displaced people from villages including Ku Lar Bar, Kyet Tein, Daunt Chaung, and Si Maw have fled to safer areas due to the fighting and are now in urgent need of mosquito nets ahead of the upcoming monsoon season.
“Those without mosquito nets are facing severe hardships. In the evenings, they follow village traditions, burning smoke to cope. They gather firewood and light fires under their shelters to fend off mosquitoes. They’re sleeping amid smoke to avoid bites,” said Ko Aung Aung, head of the Kyaukphyu Township Emergency Aid Committee for IDPs.
The displaced people, living in mosquito-prone areas like forests and fields, face heightened risks of health issues such as malaria and dengue fever, which can spread through mosquito bites, according to aid workers.
With the monsoon season approaching, the lack of mosquito nets, coupled with scarce medical supplies, has heightened fears of infectious diseases among the displaced.
“Right now, as an urgent priority, we need about 600 mosquito nets for the elderly over 75, children under 5, and pregnant women,” Ko Aung Aung added.
In addition to the shortage of mosquito nets, the refugees face challenges like inadequate shelter, limited job opportunities, and insufficient aid, making it difficult to survive the rainy season.
Ongoing clashes between the military junta and the Arakha Army (AA) in Kyaukphyu Township have so far displaced over 40,000 people, according to reports.
Sent by Aung Htein (DMG)