Internally displaced children on the east bank of Demoso in Karenni (Kayah) state are suffering from skin disease due to water shortage.
An official from ‘Job for Kayah” told the Shan Herald that the internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Dawtamagyi village of Demoso township are experiencing skin diseases and itching as a result of water scarcity and their living conditions in the forest.
“We cannot say exactly what the disease is. It will be confirmed after a medical examination. It appears to be a type of itchy disease.The IDPs have not been able to shower since they fled their
homes. They have not showered for 6 days now,”he said. In addition to children, adults also suffer from itchy diseases.
In March, conflict erupted in the eastern part of Demoso, causing many local residents to flee into the forest for safety. These IDPs are now facing critical water shortages, which make it difficult for them to maintain proper hygiene and sanitation. In addition, the Job For Kayah official said that IDPs are currently fleeing to Loikaw Township and Demoso Township, and some have fled to their relatives.
“Some of the IDPs are going to Loikaw. Some are going to villages where they have close relatives. Most of them are fleeing the war in the forest of Demoso. Living in the forest, food and water are scarce,” he said.
There has been ongoing conflict between the Military Council and the People’s Defense Forces (PDF) since March in Pekon and Pinlaung in Shan State, as well as in Karenni State. As a result of the fighting, 3 monks and 28 local civilians were killed in Pinlaung Township.
