Making water and hygiene accessible action medeor

Hygiene prevents diseases

Many diseases are caused by inadequate hygiene. These include cholera, worm infestations, influenza and pneumonia. Skin diseases such as abscesses and fungal infections can also be caused by inadequate hygiene. Many diseases can be prevented by simple measures such as regular hand washing with clean water.

Water and hygiene: unevenly distributed

But people do not have access to clean water everywhere. Although more than two thirds of the earth is covered with water, there are serious water shortages, especially in African, Latin American and Asian countries. Access to clean and safe water is made even more difficult by the consequences of climate change. Sanitary facilities are also scarce in many places. This is often particularly the case in rural regions or in makeshift accommodation for refugees. This is where diseases spread particularly quickly.

Nepal: Water and hygiene for a healthy life 

Improving access to water, hygiene and sanitation is part of many action medeor projects. One example of this is the rural mountain region of Nepal, where many schools have no sanitary facilities. The lack of water and toilets is particularly difficult for girls. Because they do not have sanitary towels and there is no way to wash themselves, many girls do not go to school during their menstruation.

Together with a local partner organization, action medeor is working to improve access to water, hygiene and sanitary facilities at schools and in the villages. For example, water ditches are dug and latrines built together with the villagers. Women, girls, families and teachers are also educated on topics such as hygiene and menstruation.