South Sudan: Alarming Malnutrition Crisis Affecting Two Million Children

In South Sudan, nearly two million children face malnutrition, worsened by ongoing conflict and environmental changes. A health clinic in Gok Machar provides essential care, revealing the pressing need for nutritional support and educational efforts among families. Local healthcare workers are striving to treat and educate parents on managing malnutrition amid these challenges.

In South Sudan, approximately two million children suffer from malnutrition, exacerbated by ongoing conflict and extreme weather changes impacting food supply. In a health clinic adorned with murals illustrating breastfeeding mothers and nurses, children receive care under pink mosquito nets. Patients like Mary Guak and her six-month-old baby, who has faced feeding issues, illustrate the grim realities of the situation.

Mary, who sells nets in the market for income, expressed concern over her family’s dwindling resources. Similarly, Abuk Malong, who cares for her three-year-old stepson after losing his father, highlights the struggles faced by families in this region. The clinic, situated in Gok Machar and serving refugees fleeing violence from neighboring Sudan, underscores the acute need for nutritional support amid increasing malnourishment amongst children, which can reach as high as 30% in specific camps.

Paediatric nurse Isaac Garang, who has local ties, reported that common medical issues include dehydration and infections like pneumonia and malaria. Children are treated using antibiotics and therapeutic nutrition such as F-100 milk. Rebecca Awan, another mother, observed her nine-month-old daughter Sarah suffering from a constant fever and failure to thrive, demonstrating the urgent need for medical intervention. Nutritional assistant Peter Aturjong further highlighted increasing patient numbers, especially during the rainy season, when over twenty children are treated daily, with many requiring referrals for specialized care.

Patient monitoring is rigorous to prevent misuse of medical supplies like the peanut-based paste “Plumpy’Nut®,” which is intended solely for malnourished children. Staff efforts are concentrated on educating mothers about the importance of these nutritional interventions. Isaac, employed by Concern Worldwide, emphasized the dedication of staff, stating that despite fatigue, the community-centric focus remains the priority.

The alarming malnutrition rates among children in South Sudan reveal a dire humanitarian crisis exacerbated by conflict and climate change. Health care workers like nurses and nutritional assistants are dedicated to addressing this urgent issue, providing essential treatments and education to struggling families. The future of many children hangs in a delicate balance as the community combats overwhelming challenges in securing adequate food and medical resources.

Original Source: www.irishexaminer.com