Specter of hepatitis looms over Ashti IDP camp
Its residents have fled violence in Saladin governorate and Shingal.
More than 60 people here are infected with hepatitis. Wherever you go in the camp, you’ll find someone who is infected. To avoid its spread, those infected need to be kept in isolation – a near impossible feat in a crowded IDP camp.
The hepatitis virus can be transmitted through sex, blood and in pregnancy. Testing is provided for those most at risk, including those who have been operated on, donated blood, or been in contact with hepatitis contaminated tools, says Dr. Yad Naqishbandi, spokesperson for Sulaimani’s health directorate.
All five members of Ibtisam Sabah’s family are infected; she says they are financially incapable of accessing medical care.
“Whatever my husband earns, he uses it to pay for physicians. He brings back money and I take it to the physician… his daily income is only 12,000 IQD ($10), what can be done with so little money?” she asks.
Camp manager Tariq Ahmed echoes Ibtisam’s woes. “Those infected with B and C types can’t access [heavily subsidized] medicine from the health directorate. They’re obliged to buy it privately, which is financially hard on them.”
Reporting by Saman Basharati
This report was prepared for Barpirsiyar on Rudaw TV, presented by Shahyan Tahsin, examining everyday challenges in the Kurdistan Region.