August 17, 2026 — Kantarawaddy Times
Health officials say respiratory illnesses are increasingly common at Karenni Refugee Camp 1, located near the Thailand-Karenni border, with between 50 and 80 patients visiting the camp clinic each day.
Runny noses, coughing, and sore throats are currently the most frequent complaints, with children under 15 years old among the most affected, officials said.
“On average, it’s between 50 and 80 a day. During peak seasons for these illnesses, it can be close to 100. Right now, we’re seeing more cases of runny nose, coughing, and sore throat related to respiratory issues,” said Naw Khu Paw, an official with the camp’s health department.
Between July and the first week of August, a combined total of 3,274 patients visited clinics at Karenni Refugee Camps 1 and 2. Of these, 826 presented with respiratory symptoms and 400 with skin conditions, while 70 patients are currently receiving treatment at the clinic.
Health officials say these illnesses tend to be seasonal, with cases rising further during the rainy season.
Following the suspension of U.S.-funded healthcare assistance for Karenni refugees along the Thailand-Karenni border, clinics have been relying solely on remaining medicine and medical supplies, resulting in shortages, officials said.
“As for other supplies, medicines, and non-medical items, the aid organizations that used to provide support are no longer doing so,” she said.
In addition to medicine, the clinic currently needs bandages, medical dressing kits, thermometers, and other medical supplies.
