MSF warns of an imminent “health catastrophe” for South Sudanese refugees in Ethiopia, citing a cholera epidemic and severe malnutrition.
Between 35,000 and 85,000 refugees have fled to Mattar, Ethiopia, near the South Sudan border.
Local infrastructure in Mattar is severely overstretched, increasing the risk of a health disaster.
MSF has treated around 1,200 cholera patients, a disease with a potential 10-20% fatality rate if untreated.
Malaria rapid tests show over 40% positive results, and nearly 7% of children under five suffer from severe acute malnutrition.
Due to border clashes between the South Sudanese army and opposition groups, MSF moved its services from Burbeiye to Mattar.
In Burbeiye, MSF treated over 200 people with “war injuries” since February.
MSF urges all parties in South Sudan to ensure safe humanitarian access and protect civilians and aid workers.
The NGO calls on international donors to urgently scale up assistance in Mattar, where shelter, water, and medical care are critically insufficient for those fleeing violence.