UNICEF and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Department have launched vital nutrition services in Swat, a region severely impacted by recent floods. These efforts, supported by the Embassy of Sweden in Pakistan, aim to address the immediate health and nutrition needs of children, mothers, and adolescent girls.
Newly-established nutrition sites provide screening and treatment for children suffering from severe acute malnutrition. The program uses ready-to-use therapeutic food to ensure effective and rapid recovery for affected children. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are receiving multiple micronutrient supplements designed to improve maternal nutrition, while adolescent girls are supplied with iron and folic acid tablets to prevent anemia.
The initiative also focuses on education and community engagement. Families are offered counseling sessions on breastfeeding, complementary feeding, immunization, sanitation, and hygiene practices. Cooking demonstrations help teach families about age-appropriate foods for young children, supporting better nutrition at home.
Lady Health Workers and Community Engagement Workers are an essential part of the initiative, conducting door-to-door visits to promote awareness, encourage healthy family practices, and make referrals for specialized care. By ensuring timely access to these essential nutrition services, the program is working to safeguard the health and wellbeing of families and children affected by the floods in Swat.
