With military operations expanding in northwestern Iraq, thousands of Iraqis continue to flock to relatively safer areas, including the governorate of Salaheddine in the centre of the country. MSF started running mobile clinics in camps and informal settlements in Tikrit district in August 2016, providing general consultations, treatment for chronic diseases and psychosocial support. With the increase of the population in Al Alam camp since then, MSF saw a need to establish a more permanent presence in the camp, and in January MSF opened a primary healthcare centre in Al Alam. MSF is also working in Al-Hajjaj Silo, a transit camp, and in Samad, a neighbourhood in Al Alam where IDPs have settled in unfinished buildings.
The displaced population in Tikrit can only rely on humanitarian assistance. People live in tents and unfinished buildings, sleeping on the ground or on thin mattresses, sometimes without heaters. Respiratory tract infections, urinary infections and skin diseases are among the most common health problems and a direct impact of the harsh living conditions for the displaced population. Almost all of them have witnessed or experienced brutal violence the trauma of displacement and separation from loved ones. The living conditions in the camp and the uncertainty about the future, add even more to the stress, which is why mental health support is an important component of MSF’s activities.