Cologne/Wachtuk. In order to prevent the spread of contagious diseases like diarrhoea in the disaster region in the south of Pakistan, Malteser International - with financial support of the Federal Foreign Office of Germany - is distributing survival kits to 1,000 families who have lost their belongings in the floods. The packages include plastic tarps and sleeping mats, as well as water cans, water purification tablets and sanitary products like soap.

Furthermore, Malteser International informs the population about important measures of hygiene. A Pakistani doctor, a midwife and local health workers advice the people of how to treat the water to make it potable. Additionally, knowledge of the basic principles of health and hygiene is very poor amongst the population, creating a favourable environment for diseases to spread quickly. That is why even trainings on how to wash hands properly with soap can save lives. These measures are of particular importance in the refugee camps.

"Due to the fact that diarrhoea - and sometimes even cholera - constitute a danger especially in flood areas, it is very important to inform the people about these diseases, the ways of infection and preventative measures", Dr. Juergen Clemens, Senior Desk Officer Pakistan at Malteser International, explains. "Women in particular contribute to the health of their families. That's why we work with female personnel who enjoy more confidence among women."

Attention editorial offices! Dr. Juergen Clemens, Senior Desk Officer Pakistan at Malteser International, is available for interviews. Please contact: +49 221 98 22 155.

For its projects in Pakistan, Malteser International appeals for donations:

Donation Account 120 120 120 Bank fuer Sozialwirtschaft, Woerthstr.15-17, D-50668 Koeln Sort Code 370 205 00, IBAN : DE49 3702 0500 0001 0258 01, BIC: BFSWDE33XXX "Pakistan"