‘Black fever’ outbreak in N. Darfur displaced camp

The health situation continues to deteriorate at the Zam Zam camp in North Darfur. An activist announced the outbreak of the ‘black fever’ disease (also known as kala-azar) at the site, along with a shortage of medicines. Zam Zam’s night clinic halted its operations since the beginning of January and the camp’s ambulance is no longer available, as reported on Wednesday by Radio Dabanga. Amid the situation, a large delegation comprising elders, youth representatives and women submitted a memorandum to the ministry of health in El-Fasher. In the document, Zam Zam’s delegation stated they “regret” that the government is ignoring the worsening health conditions at the camp, the activist said. He reaffirmed his previous statement that the arrival of displaced from East Jebel Marra is exacerbating the already critical conditions at the camp.  On a related event, the medical coordinator for the department of emergency and humanitarian action of Zam Zam said the camp’s sheikhs and omdas had already informed the state’s ministry of health about the problems they are experiencing. Dr. Tarek said the ministry promised to resolve the situation in the “near future” and reopen the night clinic and the camp’s pharmacy.  Additionally, the doctor revealed that the director of the drugs administration assured he will coordinate efforts with health organizations in order to overcome the shortage in medicines. The director will also ensure the return of the staff of the night clinic to Zam Zam, Dr. Tarek said. Radio Dabanga file photoRelated: N. Darfur camp conditions deteriorate, total displaced increases (23 January 2013)