AFRICA/SUDAN - The arrival of the rains aggravate the health conditions of refugees

Nyala (Agenzia Fides) - The arrival of the rainy season has accelerated the spread of diseases such as malaria, diarrhea, urinary retention, and conjunctivitis in the refugee camp of Kalma, near Nyala, capital of South Darfur. A statement released by Radio Dabanga states that the shortage of appropriate medications contributes to exacerbate the already serious situation due also, according to the International Rescue Committee (IRC) Organisation, to constant new arrivals. Children are the most vulnerable, with about 200 visits a day in the hospital. The authorities of the local Ministry of Health care stated that the proliferation of the epidemic is due to the large number of dead animals near sources of drinking water, especially in areas of Al Sareif Beni Hussein and Jebel 'Amer in North Darfur. This past October, the miners of Jebel 'Amer suffered from measles, diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain and typhoid. According to a local medical source, in addition to overcrowding, lack of pit latrines and the scarcity of drinking water may have been the cause. (AP) (Agenzia Fides 04/07/2013)