Start of a new school term often means resources are stretched to the limit at IGF school clinics

received_1162316693855945There is still a lack of knowledge regarding basic medical care and hygiene among the disadvantaged and remote villages and towns in Northern Uganda. Home remedies are still often used to treat sicknesses and wounds. At times it is the lack of access to medical treatment, other times the inability to afford treatment, and sometimes because ‘home remedies’ might seem just as good.

When children return to school after the holidays, the IGF school clinics are often stretched to the limit. Children often return with cuts and wounds that are infected and oozing. Some people think that the best treatment of an open wound is to cover it with dirt or cow dung, or something similar, to seal it. So while it stops bleeding outside, it begins to fester beneath the skin. Some children return with ring worm or scabies, or other treatable skin conditions. Some children return skinnier and weaker, others with ear infections, and other easily treatable pains.

The IGF school clinics are often the only source of medical care that many of these children access. So when the children come back to school, they also come for treatment for their various wounds, infections and illnesses. The clinics’ resources are always stretched to the limit.  Please consider contributing to the school clinics so that we can continue providing free treatment to our primary and vocational students.  For only $10 a month you can help provide resources for the school clinics, and educate kids about good hygiene. Visit https://irenegleesonfoundation.com/portfolio-view/school-clinics/ to start giving today.