Unvaccinated children in Arakan State face growing health risks

By Admin 09 May 2026

DMG Newsroom

9 May 2026, Pauktaw

Parents in areas controlled by the Arakan Army in Arakan State are expressing growing concern over the health of children who remain unvaccinated, warning that many are already suffering from frequent illnesses and health complications.

“My child is now eight months old and has not received a single vaccine. He gets sick very often, and we have to visit clinics regularly. Doctors told me that his repeated illnesses are linked to the lack of immunization,” said a parent from Pauktaw Township.

Under standard health guidelines, children between two months and ten years old are required to receive vaccinations against 12 diseases, including tuberculosis, Hepatitis B, polio, diarrhea, and measles, depending on their age group.

However, ongoing conflict and the regime’s blockades have prevented many children in Arakan State from receiving basic vaccinations for more than two years, leading to severe shortages of medicines and medical supplies.

Although the ULA Health Department previously administered vaccines to children under two years old in some townships controlled by the Arakan Army, follow up immunization programs have yet to resume.

“If diseases spread among unvaccinated children, the consequences can be very severe. Vaccinated children have immunity to resist infections. I am especially worried about contagious diseases like measles, which can become fatal. Children urgently need vaccines to stay protected,” said a mother from Myebon Township.

Health workers said unvaccinated children are increasingly vulnerable to diseases such as Hepatitis, malaria, influenza, and typhoid, warning that untreated infections could develop into long term health complications.

“Vaccination is extremely important. Without immunity, even common illnesses can become dangerous. Some diseases can cause chronic health problems, and in severe cases, children can die,” said a healthcare worker from Mrauk U.

Parents also expressed concern as the monsoon season approaches while vaccination programs remain suspended.

“My baby is two months old and still has not received the BCG or polio vaccine. It would be much better if these vaccinations could be given soon,” said a mother from Kyauktaw Township.

According to local health workers, the Arakan Army is attempting to resume vaccination services across its controlled areas, although there is still no clear timeline for when full immunization programmes will restart.

Since renewed fighting erupted in Arakan State in 2023, the regime’s “four cuts” blockade has created severe shortages of medicine and healthcare supplies, leaving civilians struggling to access even basic medical treatment.