In the western part of Demoso Township, Karenni State, around 40 children under the age of five have suffered from diarrhea within the past month due to a shortage of water, according to health workers.

All 40 cases are among children under five, but adults and youths are also experiencing similar illnesses, according to a health worker.

“In just one month, 40 children under five suffer diarrhea. And this doesn’t even include those over the age of five. If we count the adults as well, it would be nearly 100 cases per month,” the health worker said.

In addition to diarrhea, skin irritations are also occurring as a result of the water scarcity. Since people currently have to buy water for daily use, they are forced to ration their daily consumption, the health worker explained.

“In the mornings, we can only wash our faces and hands. We can’t shower. For bathing, we go twice a week, which is on Wednesdays and Saturdays, at Pan Pat. But too many people go there, so the water runs out quickly. We also need water for cooking, washing, and toilets,” the health worker said.

Currently, the number of internally displaced people is increasing due to ongoing clashes. As a result of the water scarcity, the number of patients is rising daily. Medical supplies are insufficient. Even for chronic illnesses such as hypertension, there is not enough medication available.

Photo credit - CJ