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Escalating violence in South Sudan has given rise to a massive population displacement, leaving tens of thousands of people in dire need of emergency medical care. As part of our ongoing response to the crisis, AmeriCares has sent a new shipment of urgently-needed medical aid to help reduce the widespread human suffering in the country. Shipment of an Emergency Medical Module is now underway, containing enough medicines to help our partner deliver primary health care to as many as 15,000 sick and injured people for up to three months. Clashes between government and armed groups, and ongoing border conflicts with Sudan have immobilized an already severely under-resourced health infrastructure -- particularly in Jonglei, Lakes, Unity and Warup states. In camps and host communities, outbreaks of malaria and acute watery diarrhea have been worsened by rainy season-related flooding, overcrowding and lack of public sanitation. Given the very limited access to medical care among the displaced, expectant mothers and babies are especially at risk. The new shipment is the latest in our emergency aid to the South Sudan, including: ...Health clinic rehab: In Renk, we funded the rehabilitation of three clinics providing primary health care to approximately 13,000 people. ...Emergency Medical Modules: Our medical aid shipments have replenished dwindling stocks of antibiotics, medicines and wound care supplies, enabling caregivers to help up to 20,000 patients in Renk and another 13,000 refugees at the Gendrassa camp. ...A portable warehouse was provided to our partner to meet the logistical challenges of working in such a remote and rugged location. ...Deployment of our emergency response team to ensure that aid reached areas with the most urgent needs. Since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has been one of the world's poorest and under-developed nations, with little infrastructure and few hospitals or health centers. Amid the violence and instability in this troubled region, AmeriCares remains committed to helping the people of South Sudan as long as our support is needed.
