People living in remote areas of Rakhine State affected by the cyclone are in need of healthcare, according to residents.
After the cyclone, the local population is experiencing health issues, such as diarrhea and illness, due to the severe scarcity of potable water and the consumption of contaminated water. As a result, they are in urgent need of healthcare assistance.
According to villagers in Aung Mya Kyaw Village, Ponnagyun Township, a considerable number of adults and children are currently affected with skin diseases. As a result, the villagers have sought the assistance of a traditional healer to provide treatment for these conditions.
In Pyein Taw Village, Rathedaung Township, at least ten individuals are currently suffering from diarrhea. These individuals must undertake a long, three-hour boat journey to reach the nearest town in order to receive necessary healthcare services.
Ko Wai Hlyan from Pyein Taw village said, "After the cyclone, there are many mosquitoes in the village. There is no hospital in the village. Even now, there are so many mosquitoes, it can be tough for pregnant women and children during the rainy season. We need healthcare."
Daw Ma Hla Sein from Aung Mya Kyaw village said, "Children in our village are getting rashes on their bodies. When the medicine doesn't bring improvement, injections become necessary. Some individuals have recovered, while others are still awaiting recovery. We are worried and urgently seek healthcare support.
In the cyclone-affected areas, UNOCHA announced on May 21 that there are difficulties in obtaining clean drinking water, resulting in a high risk of water-borne diseases and infectious diseases.
U Win Maung from Nga Mel Pyin Village, Mrauk U Township said, "The village is experiencing hot and rainy weather, accompanied by a high mosquito population. The local township health department has not yet provided medical assistance. We urgently request the health department to visit our village and provide healthcare services."
The Rakhine State Health Department has made a submission to higher authorities, requesting assistance in conducting mosquito control activities and distributing mosquito nets. Unfortunately, as there is currently no assistance available from the authorities, o the healthcare efforts are limited to utilizing the remaining medicines.
INGO and NGO organizations, in an effort to address the needs of those affected by the Cyclone, approached the Military Council with their proposals. However, due to restrictions on direct support, they were compelled to collaborate with the township health department to provide health-related assistance and support.
The Arakan Civil Society Organizations (ACSO) have requested the Military Council to refrain from restricting international organizations and civil society groups, emphasizing the urgent need for assistance among the cyclone-affected people.
