Myanmar

The Crisis

Cyclone Nargis created large scale flooding and brackish water pools. As flood waters receded, a risk of extensive breeding sites for malaria vectors took place. whilst on the other hand the debris generated by the destruction of the cyclone created suitable breeding sites for Aedes mosquitoes, the vector of dengue fever.

Both malaria and dengue were endemic in Myanmar with different epidemiological patterns in the different areas of the country. National figures for dengue indicated that Yangon and Ayeyarwady Divisions had experienced the highest incidence of dengue in recent years, accounting for more than 60% of all reported cases. Two vector borne diseases were at high risk of epidemics, in particular among the displaced, unsheltered and vulnerable populations.

The ruling Junta was initially reluctant to let foreign humanitarian relief into the Cyclone affected areas, however, one month later, emergency aid and early recovery support to the population was allowed. The MENTOR Initiative urgently launched an appeal for funding and resources to mitigate the potential impact of malaria and dengue.