Every month, our project manager in Myanmar Su Myat Oo (called Su Su) sends us a summary of the activities at the Irrawaddy River Doctors and at the mother and child center. She also gives us an insight into the current situation in the politically unstable Myanmar and the impact this is having on the local people.

We reproduce her impressive report in the original English language. Here are her observations for the month of August:

Dear Dr. Veronika,

I am writing a monthly overview report for our August trip, which we finished safely and completely on August 23rd. During the trip, our team was able to provide medical treatment to 13 villages. As you known, until now, Myanmar is still a politically unstable country. We encountered many inconveniences with working under the control of the military. However, we are working hard to focus on work and for those who need our treatment.

We treated a total amount of children and adults of 1210. This number includes both general patients (893; 74%) and dental patients (317; 26%). Additionally we checked 68 pregnant women. We did laboratory test for 50 of them. A total number of 197 (children < 15 years male and female) came for medical check-ups and treatment. And 24 children under one year visited our boat for medical treatment. Total deworming number for August is 183.

According to August ICD results, the most patients came due to Malaria, Dengue, Hepatitis, Syphilis, HIV, diabetes mellitus, coughing, respiratory infection, disease of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, and more. In the dental clinic we treated among other things dental caries, periodontitis, gingivitis, sometimes oral ulcer and tongue ulcer due to sharp edges of the teeth.

In August we didn't get as many patients as we thought. The reasons therefore is probably the bad weather: it is raining heavily and it is difficult for the people to go outside.

On August 24th our staff went back to their home and rest a week for their holidays. Now, we are planning and preparing for September trip. We have to buy and prepare for the next trip.

The last thing I want to say is we thanks to Artemed Stiftung and all generous donors. We are still able to operate because of your help and continue support. We hope to see you soon.

With Best regards,

Su Su

News from the Mother and Child Center, Bogale

In August, a total of 226 women visited the Mother and Child Center for treatment. Of these, six came to give birth, 126 for prenatal care and three for follow-up checks. The remaining 91 patients came to the center for other complaints. The 37 girls and boys came for examinations'. Malnutrition was diagnosed in 26 of them.