Field visit to Papua New Guinea

It’s the second day back to work after the New Year break and 2012 is definitely off to a busy start! Amidst the hustle and bustle of day-to-day tasks is the excitement I am feeling and the preparations I am making for my upcoming field visit to the MSF projects in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Violence is pervasive throughout PNG. It is a major problem in the country and primarily affects women and children in the form of sexual, physical and emotional abuse. As you can imagine, sexual violence can result in injuries, early or unwanted pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases including HIV/AIDS, sexual dysfunction, and other ailments. Physical violence can result in concussions, lacerations, fractures and symptoms such as gastrointestinal disorders and chronic pain. The psychological impact of such abuse can cause depression, anxiety, post trauma and stress disorder (PTSD), and suicidal tendencies. However, the critical medical and psycho-social needs of victims are not being adequately addressed. Firstly, the violence is so pervasive throughout society and women only go to seek assistance when they are seriously injured. Secondly, there are only a handful of dedicated services available. MSF has been working in PNG since 2009. Our operations are based out of two family support centres at Angau Memorial General Hospital in Lae; and Tari Hospital in the Southern Highlands. Services provided include medical care and psychosocial support to survivors of sexual and domestic violence. The predicament faced by PNG citizens goes beyond the lack of adequate care: the violence I mentioned above is rarely covered by media. Why would this be a problem? Well, when MSF works to alleviate suffering during a natural disaster for example, it is relatively easy to garner support and funds for our relief projects because members of the public can see the turmoil themselves from the news and are moved to make a contribution. However, the victims assisted by MSF in places such as PNG are often neglected by those who are in the position to help because their plight is simply not known. With the information I will gather from this visit, I really hope to be able to highlight the needs of the PNG population and bring in more support to our dedicated colleagues serving in PNG. I started prepping for the visit a few weeks ago. I went for my vaccinations for one thing. As I am absolutely terrified of needles I was quite relieved to hear the doctor say that since I have already had my Hepatitis jabs as a child, the only one I really need for such a short visit is the vaccination against typhoid. Besides getting the injection I also learnt several things that day – namely that the risk of getting malaria is several times higher in PNG than in most parts of the African continent. This was a surprise to me and rest assured that I will be stocking up on mosquito repellant as well as taking anti-malaria pills. I will try to write again before my departure next week, and will definitely write once I get to the field - however I have heard that the internet connection is intermittent. I may have to wait until I get back to the capital but will do my best to not keep you waiting too long! In the meantime, happy New Year everyone! Thank you for all your support and may 2012 bring you happiness, love and good health! Laura LEE (MSF office staff)