On July 4, torrential rains caused a major landslide and subsequent flooding in Hpakant, a mining area in northern Kachin state, Myanmar, where Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) runs a sexually transmitted disease/HIV clinic. Officials have recorded 24 people dead, although figures are unclear. Around 1,000 people who have lost their homes have sought refuge in local monasteries and a school. The local 25-bed government hospital has received dozens of injured and part of the hospital has also been flooded.

In response, MSF is distributing non-food items, including soap, blankets and mosquito nets, along with essential food items, donated by the World Food Programme, to those affected by the disaster. MSF is also providing support to the government hospital through the provision of medical supplies.

MSF continues to monitor the situation closely, especially water and sanitation which is a key area of concern, and is ready to respond as necessary.

MSF in Kachin State

At its northern most reaches Kachin State borders China and comprises thick jungle, along with Myanmar’s largest mountains. The region contains people from many different ethnic groups, as well as numerous migrant workers – attracted by the big jade mines. In these places health issues, notably HIV/AIDS, are fuelled by a prevalence of brothels and opium dens, and compounded by a lack of accessible and affordable health services.

Here, MSF runs eight clinics and numerous mobile clinics, providing services in HIV/AIDS care, treatment and prevention activities (including harm-reduction for intravenous drug users), reproductive tract infection treatment, tuberculosis treatment, malaria treatment and health education.

HIV in Myanmar

The situation for many people living with HIV in Myanmar is critical due to a severe lack of lifesaving antiretroviral treatment (ART). MSF currently provides ART to more than 11,000 people. That is the majority of all available treatment countrywide but only a small fraction of what is urgently needed.