As prolonged drought grips Somalia, people are losing their livestock, homes and lives. Poor harvests, rising food prices, continuing violence and chronic poverty have further contributed to a sudden rise in malnutrition rates.
Many children are suffering from severe malnutrition with extremely low weight, signs of wasting and nutritional oedema. The security situation in Somalia is complicated, but because we are an impartial medical organisation and rely on charitable donations instead of government funding, we continue to be the only medical charity working in many areas.
There are hundreds of children and adults arriving at our clinics every day. Many of them need expert medical care for malnutrition, often whilst battling other severe conditions such as malaria and pneumonia.
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Make a donation today and help us provide medical care to the Somali people
MSF uses a new fixed-dose combination drug that works quickly to combat the illness and causes very few side effects. Your gift can help us provide this highly effective and patient friendly treatment.
This is based on 2 to 3 packets of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) per day until they recover. RUTF provides the essential vitamins, minerals, fats and proteins children need to survive and grow properly.
Measles mostly strikes children under the age of five, and is especially dangerous for malnourished children. Complications can include ear infections, pneumonia and impaired mental development. The vaccine is effective for 85% of children who receive it.
Stocked with drugs and basic medical supplies to treat injuries and wounds, these kits enable teams to provide basic medical care in remote areas. The contents of the kits are packed to allow for easy travelling on foot or by motorbike.