The 17 months old, Ismail Haider Shui arrived at the Al-Gharbi Health Unit in Kuaidina District, Hajjah, Governorate on November 25, 2023, in a critical state. Severe diarrhea had left him severely dehydrated and barely conscious. He was diagnosed with severe acute malnutrition, with a weight of only 4,300 grams and a worrying Z-score below -3.
Despite immediate treatment at Al-Gharbi Health Unit, including a 10% sugar solution, and proper treatment, Ismail's condition remained critical. Recognizing the urgency, the healthcare team decided to transfer him to a TFC for treating complicated severe malnutrition cases.
Initially, Ismail's father refused the transfer, fearing he couldn't afford treatment. However, the National Foundation for Development and Humanitarian Response (NFDHR) as part of the project that is provision of Integrated FSA, Health, Nutrition, and WASH Responses to the Affected Displaced People and Host Community in Ku'aydinah District, and FSA and WASH Responses in Al-Miftah District, Hajjah Governorate funded by Yemen Humanitarian Fun (YHF), which supports Al-Gharbi Health Unit and five other health facilities in the district and intervened in activities related to SAM cases and the referral system, assured him that all expenses would be covered.
Dr. Bassam Al-Walidi, NFDHR coordinator, emphasized the gravity of the situation and the near-fatal consequences of not receiving specialized care. With transportation and accommodation arranged, Ismail and his mother were transferred to the treatment center.
Within three days, Ismail's condition showed significant improvement. He regained consciousness, and his complications were addressed. The NFDHR team closely monitored his progress, and by December 4, 2023, he had fully recovered. Consequently, Ismail returned home, his health restored and his family's joy rekindled. This story highlights the crucial role of access to healthcare and the life-saving interventions available for children suffering from severe malnutrition.
