Overview
Admissions into selective feeding programmes declined in September and October, in line with seasonal trends. While the absolute number of admissions into selective feeding centres is higher in 2008 compared to 2007, this is attributed in part to the increased number of selective feeding programmes and expanded outreach, however insecurity continues to intermittently impede continuous operation and access to some locations.
Localised nutrition surveys: Results of four localised nutrition surveys have been cleared. In the three surveys where data is comparable with 2007, GAM rates in two (North Darfur and South Darfur) were not significantly different from that reported in 2007, while in the third case (North Darfur), GAM was lower than in 2007. Malnutrition and diarrhoea prevalence was linked in two surveys where additional analysis was conducted. In 3 out of the 4 surveys, younger children (6-29 months) were more at risk from malnutrition than older children (30-59 months).
Health: ARI, malaria and diarrhoea continue to be reported as the most prevalent illnesses during the reporting period, but the overall levels are in line with seasonal trends.
Food aid: The general food distribution ration remained at a reduced level from September through November. Food aid continued to play a role as a major source of food for IDPs in sentinel sites in North and South Darfur, and for both IDPs and residents in sentinel sites in West Darfur.