Rainy Season in Madagascar: Healthcare Struggles Amidst Drought and Floods

During the rainy season in Madagascar, healthcare services are put at risk, especially during peak malaria season from October to May. Malnourished children are particularly vulnerable as their lives are put at even greater risk. Dr Nantenaina, a medical doctor at an Intensive Therapeutic Feeding Centre (ITFC) operated by MSF, explains the difficulties faced by both healthcare workers and patients during this time.

In remote areas like Ikongo, the distance between households and healthcare facilities is significant, making it even more challenging for families to access medical help. Soanary, a mother of a 4-year-old boy suffering from malnutrition and malaria, shares her experience of having to walk for four hours and cross through water with her son on her back to reach the nearest health centre after seeing his condition deteriorate.

The rainy season can make roads muddy, flooded, and unusable, making it hard for people to travel to health centres or for medical professionals to provide care. This can result in delayed medical care for many people who only seek help when their health has significantly worsened. The difficulties faced by healthcare workers and patients during the rainy season highlight the importance of addressing these challenges and ensuring that people can receive the care they require even during difficult weather conditions.