Although this additional U.S. aid will go a long way toward meeting Somalias shortfall. this food will not reach Somalia as soon as it is needed. It takes a minimum of 90 days from the time money is appropriated to the time food arrives in Somalia. Once the food reaches Somalia. it takes 1 to 3 weeks to distribute the food to refugee camps. Supposing the Public Law 480 supplemental funds are appropriated at the end of May. food would not reach Somalia until the end of August. This food would not be distributed until sometime in late September. Because current aid to Somalia will run out in July. there is potential for famine during the months of July. August. and September. The marginal health situation of Somalia has deteriorated with the massive influx of refugees. Malnutrition and dehydration is common among new arrivals. Approximately 15 percent of the children in camps suffer from severe malnutrition. Overcrowding and the absence of environmental sanitation provide a breeding ground for epidemics. Elementary pit latrines are not even used for excreta disposal. Water for the refugees is both unsafe and in short supply. Most refugees consume water directly from water sources which are used by livestock. Relief agencies have warned refugees about waterborne diseases. but shortages of wood have prevented refugees from boiling their water. Medical and health services. where available. are insufficient. The Somali population has only one doctor per 12.000 persons.
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refugee refugees