In Karamoja, Uganda, many children face serious health problems due to dirty food and water. A recent study showed that nearly half of what under-fives eat and drink is contaminated with drug-resistant Salmonella. This bacteria can make children very ill and does not respond to standard antibiotics.
The area suffers from malnutrition and ongoing water shortages. Many families do not have safe drinking water, and open defecation is common. This makes it easy for harmful bacteria to spread in food and water.
Difficult words
- bacteria — Very small living things that can make people sick.
- contaminated — Made dirty or unsafe by something harmful.
- malnutrition — Not getting enough healthy food.
- antibiotics — Medicines that fight infections.
- drink — To take in liquid through the mouth.
- water — A clear liquid essential for life.
- food — Substance that people eat to get energy.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why do you think water shortages are a big problem?
- How can families improve their food safety?
- What do you think can help reduce health issues in this area?
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