8 April 2011--Assessments indicate that more than 70% of the affected population do not have access to health services. Access to health care for IDPs and refugees is one of the most urgent needs. Furthermore the melting down of the national health system and the increasing impoverishment of population lead to high morbidity due to diseases such as malaria, diarrhoeas, measles and acute respiratory infections, and increased maternal and newborn mortality and morbidity.
Compendium of Consolidated Appeal Process: Health 2008
On 19 August 2006, a ship unloaded around 500 tonnes of petrochemical waste which was subsequently dumped in 17 sites around Abidjan (population estimated at 5 million). This waste contained a mixture of petroleum distillates, hydrogen sulphide, mercaptans, phenolic compounds and sodium hydroxide. Within a few days, thousands of people started complaining of ill health and seeking medical help. Between 5 and 20 September, more than 62 000 people have sought medical care. The number continues to rise daily. Eight deaths have been reported. The international community responded by sending experts teams to support the Government. Clean-up of the waste has started; it is anticipated that this will take about six weeks.