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BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan (February 23, 2008) - Afghan
National Security Forces, assisted by Coalition forces, provided
medical treatment to 210 patients and provided more than one ton of
humanitarian aid for 400 local nationals in Hajyano-Qala in the
Arghandab District of Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, Feb. 19.
Kuchi elders attended a community development council recently
and requested medical and humanitarian aid from the government of
the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan representatives.
In response to the villager's requests for assistance, the
Afghan government immediately responded with a medical and
humanitarian mission explained a Coalition soldier.
The medical team treated most patients for typical cold and flu
symptoms, as well as gastrointestinal maladies. Males comprised the
largest number of patients, but many females were also present and
were receptive to the treatment. Patients' ages ranged from newborn
to 70 years old. An infant with second degree burns on the arm was
referred to the local clinic for further treatment.
"The elders identified people in need, so ANSF forces quickly
came together with the appropriate aid package to ease the
suffering of the Afghan people," a Coalition soldier soldier.
Village elders prepared to distribute items while the ANSF
unloaded a trailer full of medicine and medical supplies, food and
vitamins. The combined force brought winter clothes, including
sweaters, jackets, shoes and boots. Some families also received
toothbrushes, bowls, lotion, soap and infant formula depending on
their needs.
After handing out food and supplies and treating minor aliments,
the team gave a class on proper oral hygiene techniques and
preventive medicine classes for many of the villagers.
Last week near Geresk, in Helmand Province, the medical team
treated approximately 500 locals at a medical engagement. A
significant number of women received medical care indicating a
diminishing insurgent influence in the area and a continued upward
trend in female attendance at medical and humanitarian aid missions
in southern Afghanistan.
"Missions such as this greatly improve the health and welfare of
villagers who live in very remote locations like Hajyano-Qala," a
Coalition soldier said. "Villagers are learning that they can trust
ANSF and the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to
provide for their needs."
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