In South Sudan, 2 million children are suffering from malnutrition due to ongoing conflicts, resource shortages, and extreme weather conditions. Health clinics are treating malnourished children, with medical staff working long hours to provide necessary care, including antibiotics and therapeutic milk. Families face serious challenges as they strive for adequate nutrition and health amid dire circumstances.
In South Sudan, a critical health crisis is impacting approximately 2 million children suffering from malnutrition. At a health clinic adorned with murals depicting breastfeeding mothers, health workers care for malnourished children, many of whom are battling other illnesses. Families are faced with dwindling resources for food, as exemplified by Mary Guak, whose six-month-old baby has not fed properly for weeks and is now receiving treatment for breathing difficulties.
Another mother, Abuk Malong, cares for her stepson in similar dire circumstances, highlighting a common setup in the region where women often become co-wives and bear the burdens of raising children alone. The clinic is strategically located in Gok Machar, a health compound near the border of war-torn Sudan. The influx of refugees has worsened the food situation, with malnutrition rates climbing as high as 30% among children in some camps, as reported by the World Health Organization.
The ongoing conflicts contribute to food shortages, which are further exacerbated by extreme weather changes. Nurse Isaac Garang reports a range of complications in children such as dehydration and pneumonia, which they treat with antibiotics and therapeutic milk known as F-100. Within the clinic, Rebecca Awan expresses concern for her daughter Sarah, who suffers from fever and weight issues without adequate food intake.
Nutritional assistant Peter Aturjong notes the increase in malnutrition cases during the wet season, sometimes exceeding 20 children per day, with some requiring referrals to specialist care. He emphasizes the importance of proper use of therapeutic foods like “Plumpy’Nut®,” cautioning against sharing it with others not in need.
Nurse Isaac and his colleague work extended hours to address the community’s health crises, reflecting a deep commitment despite personal exhaustion. “I’m tired but we are helping our community, and this is what’s important,” he stated.
Their dedication is crucial in a region plagued by significant health and nutritional challenges, as families strive to survive amidst ongoing struggles.
The exacerbating issue of malnutrition in South Sudan highlights a dire humanitarian crisis, with 2 million children at risk. Contributing factors include conflict, resource shortages, and extreme weather, leading to serious health conditions. Medical staff work tirelessly to provide essential care and nutrition support, but challenges remain regarding food access and the proper use of therapeutic interventions. Continuous community efforts are necessary to combat this critical situation and support affected families.
Original Source: www.irishexaminer.com
