Mobile health camp reaches upper Humla
Six days, 1,180 patients, and the first ante-natal screening many of these women have ever had.
The camp team of two doctors, three nurses and a lab technician walked for two days from Simikot to reach the upper villages, carrying medicines, a portable ultrasound and a solar-powered cold box for vaccines. Local health volunteers had spread word of the camp a fortnight in advance, and people began queuing before sunrise on the first morning.
Most patients came with respiratory infections, joint pain and eye problems linked to smoky kitchens. The team also referred fourteen patients to the district hospital, and arranged transport for the four who could not travel on their own.
What the camp delivered
- 1,180 general consultations across four wards
- 212 ante-natal check-ups, including ultrasound screening
- Routine immunisation for 346 children under five
- Nutrition screening and supplements for 190 children
- Fourteen referrals to the district hospital, with transport arranged
What happens next
Female community health volunteers in each ward will follow up with every pregnant woman screened at the camp. The next camp is planned for Mangsir, before the passes close for winter.