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Field medical posts deliver critical services as outflow from Sudan conflict surges

Adre, Chad – More than 350 000* people have fled the conflict in Sudan for safety in Chad, which is hosting the largest number of people forced across borders by the fighting to neighbouring countries. More than half of those who have fled to Chad have settled in the eastern border town of Adre.  

The massive influx is exerting significant pressure on Chad’s already fragile health system. Faced with an upsurge in cases of malaria, respiratory and intestinal infections, World Health Organization (WHO) and partners are supporting the country’s Ministry of Health to provide free clinical, surgical and nutritional health care. Vaccination is also being stepped up to prevent disease outbreaks among the refugees and host community.

* As of 6 August 2023

Field medical posts deliver critical services as outflow from Sudan conflict surges
Part of the desert landscape in Adre is now a sprawling sea of makeshift tents hosting tens of thousands of families who have fled the fighting in Sudan. Living conditions are precarious, increasing the risk of disease outbreaks. In response, WHO and its partners have set up advanced health posts to provide emergency health assistance to the displaced population.
Field medical posts deliver critical services as outflow from Sudan conflict surges
At one of the health posts, 15-month-old Ousmane has been brought in for a check-up by his mother, Ousna Hamad, who arrived from Sudan with her four children a month earlier. After an initial examination, the boy is sent to the nurse. The diagnosis: Ousmane has malaria. The mother and son then move on the pharmacy.
Field medical posts deliver critical services as outflow from Sudan conflict surges
“I've been given medicines free of charge and I'm very happy about that, especially in these conditions where we arrived here with no money,” says Ousna.

The most common illnesses being reported include malaria, malnutrition and acute intestinal and respiratory infections. Children under the age of five are worst affected and are being closely monitored.
Field medical posts deliver critical services as outflow from Sudan conflict surges
Alima, an NGO, receives nearly 200 people a day wanting at its health post near the refugee transit centre in Adre.

“Thanks to WHO support, we are able to offer the minimum primary health care package. We even deliver babies, and we have referred quite a few serious cases to the hospital in Adre,” says Nadjissa Noudjimadji, Alima’s medical officer.

The health workers at the forefront of the response also deal with multiple injuries and trauma cases, caused by firearms or knives. In the space of only a week in the second half of June, for example, more than 1000 injured people flocked to Adre's health centres, overwhelming the district's health system.
Field medical posts deliver critical services as outflow from Sudan conflict surges
Aid agencies and partners are providing support to strengthen the health system in Adre district. “If the partners weren't there, the situation would be even more catastrophic,” says Dr Mahamoud Adam Mahamat, Adre’s Chief District Medical Officer. However, more health professionals and equipment such as ambulances, are needed to effectively respond to the health emergency.

Since the arrival of the first refugees, WHO has provided more than 40 tons of essential medicines, medical equipment and emergency surgical kits to the Chadian government. The kits include antimalarials, antibiotics, surgical kits, cholera management kits, malnutrition kits, tents and personal protective equipment.
Field medical posts deliver critical services as outflow from Sudan conflict surges
WHO is working with partners and the health authorities to develop an effective response plan and mobilize resources for emergency health assistance. The Organization is working to ensure that all those affected receive quality services as well as ensuring that norms and best practises are applied.

Efforts are also underway to reinforce disease surveillance to help the district authorities to prepare for and prevent potential outbreaks.

“We are on high alert, especially with the anticipated floods, so that we can prevent all diarrhoeal diseases, particularly cholera,” explains Dr Cheick Oumar Kone, WHO coordinator in Adre.
Field medical posts deliver critical services as outflow from Sudan conflict surges
The Organization has deployed staff to all three affected provinces of Ouaddai, Wadi Fira and Sila. The health response is a key element in the management of this humanitarian crisis, says Dr Kone.

“When there is such a high concentration of people in refugee camps, and the health system is overwhelmed, providing optimal care is a major challenge. WHO is, however, continuing to work with the authorities and partners to reduce disease and death, especially amongst women and children,” he says.
For Additional Information or to Request Interviews, Please contact:
Ndéye Coumba DIADHIOU

Chargée de Communication
OMS Tchad
Email : coumbalay [at] gmail.com

Kayi Lawson

Communications Officer
Regional Office for Africa
Email: lawsonagbluluf [at] who.int