In Banhtwei (Panthwe) Village of Mindat Township in southern Chin State, the spread of diarrhea continues to accelerate, infecting at least 20 residents within a week, according to the doctor in charge of the humanitarian group assisting the war-displaced people in Mindat.
"Within just a week, 20 more patients were identified. Some experienced severe drops in blood pressure. Fortunately, we were able to provide the necessary drugs and salts in time, ensuring their safety. Such situations are life-threatening. Nearby healthcare workers are actively assisting and treating the patients”, he said.
Most of the people who contracted diarrhea in the village were elderly individuals over 60 years old and children under 10. Thanks to timely treatment, there have been no casualties so far.
In June, two elderly individuals succumbed to a diarrhea outbreak in Aukchaing Village, Mindat. Subsequently, the number of infections rose steadily, prompting authorities to enforce a total lockdown of the village. While the situation is now under control, the lockdown has not been lifted yet.
"When facing frequent defecation due to disease, the human body loses a lot of water, leading to a drop in blood pressure. Essential salts are also lost along with feces, necessitating the intake of saline water for replenishment. Patients unable to drink must receive saline through intravenous drip. Timely hydration can mitigate this life-threatening condition”, the doctor explained.
Due to the junta's stringent restrictions on importing medicine and health supplies into Mindat, there is now a notable shortage of essential drugs in the region’s healthcare sector.
On June 16, the Chin Health Organization (CHO) reported that the spread of diarrhea in Paletwa Township has reached epidemic levels, resulting in at least 14 deaths.
Diarrhea patients often experience severe symptoms such as dysentery, vomiting, cramps, and exhaustion.
The most important precaution is to drink only boiled water. If oral rehydration salt solution is not easily accessible, CHO recommends drinking a solution made by dissolving 6 teaspoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of salt in one liter of pre-boiled and cooled water.
