Seasonal flu is common among displaced persons (IDPs) in Kyunhla and Kanbalu towns, Sagaing Region, and there is an urgent need for assistance to address these health issues.
A responsible person from the Kyunhla-Kanbalu Activists Group has stated that there is an urgent need for medical supplies and treatment for IDPs in the Kyunhla and Kanbalu towns.
He said: “During the rainy season, there is an increase in cases such as runny noses, coughs and flu. All types of illnesses are spreading rapidly. Seasonal flu can be alleviated with medication. However, for IDPs, it would be more manageable if free treatment were available. This is a time of year when such issues commonly occur.”
In addition to the ongoing battles, armed conflicts, and transportation difficulties, the prices of food supplies and medicines have tripled due to the junta’s road blockades, making them difficult to purchase.
“Medicines are extremely expensive now. Previously, it was manageable to get them on credit, but now it is very difficult to buy them with cash. Prices have tripled. Due to the difficulty in securing funds to purchase medicines, we are also facing delays in providing medical treatment to IDPs. But, we are trying our best,” he added.
A bottle of paracetamol costs 50,000 MMK, and Amoxicillin capsules (10 packets) costs 25,000 MMK, according to IDPs and aid workers.
In addition to medicines, there is also a need for basic food supplies, shelter, and clothing for IDPs in Kyunhla and Kanbalu towns, according to a Kyunhla IDP woman.
An IDP woman said: “During the rainy season, IDPs need basic food supplies and shelter. Residents had fled over two years in the Koetaungboet sub-township. Some IDPs are sheltering in brick buildings, while others IDPs are living in makeshift shelters. At this time, IDPs need shelters. The main needs are basic food supplies, medicine, and clothing.”
There are over 10,000 IDPs in Kyunhla and Kanbalu towns, primarily including villagers from Kyaukaing, Tapaung, Ngapyawtaw, Ngabataing, Tanbo, Bogone, Sanpya, Kyigone, Ywarthi, Zeetaw and Chaungkwae.
In July, junta drone attacks on Thayetkhaung and Thapyaythar villages in Kanbalu Township resulted in the deaths of three civilians and the destruction of 72 houses by arson attack.
