Eight million Burmese children in 'immediate danger', says UNICEF

Eight million children are in immediate danger of disease in Burma, according to the UN global aid agency.

UNICEF said it was ‘gravely concerned’ that the lack of shelter and safe drinking water, coupled with poor sanitary conditions, could significantly increase the death toll in Burma.

With the death toll climbing well past 50,000, there is concern that disease could spread quickly, aided by warm weather and standing polluted water.

“There is no time to waste when it comes to saving children’s lives,” said Melanie Verwoerd, UNICEF Ireland executive director.

“With the lives of tens of thousands of children hanging in the balance, every second counts.”

Those wishing to donate to UNICEF Ireland's Cyclone Nargis disaster, can call 1850 767 999 or visit www.unicef.ie to donate securely online.

“We have the know-how and the logistical means. People support UNICEF because of our track record in the field,” said Ms. Verwoerd.

“They know we will be there for children before, during and well after the emergency.”

Noting that with one in three children malnourished in Myanmar (Burma), many children lack the ability to endure a catastrophe on such a massive scale.

“This is quickly shaping up to be a children’s catastrophe.” said Ms. Verwoerd.

In addressing that and other priorities UNICEF today issued a global appeal for immediate needs of €5.3m.

“In any disaster, it is children who suffer most,” UNICEF says in the donor appeal.

“Children have died; many are separated from their families, injured and traumatised. Vulnerable to hunger, disease and trauma, children and women in the affected areas require urgent lifesaving assistance to survive.”