In South Sudan, around 2 million children suffer from malnutrition amid ongoing conflict and food shortages exacerbated by climate change. Health clinics provide care for malnourished children, focusing on proper treatment and education for their families. Dedicated health workers operate tirelessly to alleviate suffering in their communities.
In South Sudan, a staggering number of children, approximately 2 million, are affected by malnutrition, as reported by aid agencies. A health clinic, adorned with murals depicting breastfeeding mothers, provides care for malnourished children affected by various illnesses. Among those receiving treatment, Mary Guak shares her six-month-old baby’s struggles with feeding and breathing issues, while her family faces challenges in securing food due to economic hardships.
The clinic, located in the Gok Machar health compound near the border of conflict-ridden Sudan, also assists refugees fleeing violence. The World Health Organization indicates that malnutrition rates among refugee children may reach 30% in certain camps. The ongoing conflict further exacerbates existing food shortages driven by climate change.
Paediatric nurse Isaac Garang notes that children arrive with multiple health complications, including dehydration and pneumonia. They administer treatments such as antibiotics and therapeutic milk to address malnourishment. In another hospital bed, Rebecca Awan is concerned for her nine-month-old daughter, who suffers from persistent fever and poor growth.
Nutritional assistant Peter Aturjong reports a high influx of malnourished children, especially during the rainy season, with as many as 20 daily visits. He highlighted the importance of educating mothers about specialized nutrition products, emphasizing that items like the peanut-based paste “Plumpy’Nut®” are crucial medicines for their children. Isaac Garang works tirelessly, managing long hours to support his community, stating, “I’m tired but we are helping our community, and this is what’s important.”
The ongoing crisis of malnutrition in South Sudan affects nearly 2 million children, driven by conflict and climate change. Health professionals at various clinics work diligently to combat these high malnutrition rates, particularly among vulnerable populations such as refugees. Efforts to provide medical care and education on the importance of nutritional products are critical in addressing the dire needs of these communities, as dedicated personnel continue their work despite challenges and fatigue.
Original Source: www.irishexaminer.com
