Medicine Shortages Afflict Children and Pregnant Mothers in Kachin-China Border Areas

Pajau Media

April 23, 2025

Residents in the Kachin-China border areas, including Maija Yang, Inba Pa, and Maibat, report severe shortages of nutritional supplements and vaccines for children and pregnant mothers.

“Newborns and young children should be vaccinated, but since medicines aren’t reaching our border area, we have to travel from Maija Yang to Muse to get them. For vaccinations, we have to register a month in advance,” said a mother who travels to Muse for immunizations.

Medicine shortages for children have persisted since Operation 1027, leaving many infants unvaccinated. Pregnant women also struggle to access prenatal vitamins and other essential nutrients due to supply constraints.

“Health workers say transporting medicine is extremely difficult. Even when available, supplies are insufficient, forcing people to queue—some get it, others don’t. Going to Muse requires pre-registration a month ahead. It’s a huge struggle,” the mother added.

Border areas host large numbers of displaced people, and ongoing political conflict exacerbates financial hardships, making travel for healthcare even harder.

The round trip from Maija Yang to Muse costs nearly 500,000 kyats, further straining locals and intensifying the urgent need for vaccines and medical supplies.

News: Pilan U