Locals report that displaced people in Ann Township, Arakan State, urgently need health care as malaria cases and deaths continue to rise.
A local man from Ann said that around 2,000 people in Ann Township have been displaced due to fighting between the military council and the Arakha Army (AA), and at least 15 people, including children, have died from malaria in June this year.
“The number of malaria cases has risen, and so have the malaria-related deaths. The situation is expected to worsen during the rainy season due to a shortage of medicine and other challenges,” said the local resident.
In Ann Township, near the foothills of the Arakan Yoma Mountains, malaria cases are rising as internally displaced persons (IDPs) lack proper shelters and mosquito nets, combined with a high mosquito breeding rate during the monsoon season.
Despite the increasing number of malaria cases, internally displaced persons in Ann Township are reportedly struggling to access healthcare.
“Even when people are unwell, hospitals and clinics are far away, and they cannot afford to buy medicine. For those taking refuge in the forest, transportation is extremely difficult. Displaced persons suffering from malaria are also unable to access proper medical treatment,” he added.
The Arakan Army (AA) fully took control of Ann Township on 20 December 2024, but entry into Ann town remains prohibited due to security concerns.
IDPs living in the forests and mountains of Ann Township are facing not only challenges with food and shelter but also escalating health problems. Consequently, they hope the Arakha People’s government will provide healthcare services as soon as possible.
Sent by Aung Htein (DMG)