340 children at Mt Bosavi safe

Three-hundred-and-forty (340) children from six villages in Muluma, Southern Highlands, were immunised during a four-day health patrol as part of Oil Search Foundation’s (OSF) post-earthquake relief operations last month.
The OSF-led team comprised of a doctor, a midwife, a family planning officer from Marie Stopes (PNG) and two field health officers.
Closure of the Muluma aid post several years ago has been a challenge in the community.
The team used the opportunity to provide basic health care, family planning, antenatal clinics for pregnant women and general health awareness, including coordination of two medical evacuations.
Team leader, Dr Graham Low, said lack of access to a health facility had put many at risk of dying from curable diseases, especially women and children.
“Routine heath patrols are necessary and vital for communities who have difficulties accessing health services,” he said.
“It’s the only way we can reach the sick and save lives in remote rural communities.”
Muluma is located in Mt Bosavi local level government in Nipa-Kutubu district and has no road access.