Study Links Lower Temperatures to Higher Gastroenteritis Risk in Rohingya Refugee Camps

A recent study conducted by researchers at Hokkaido University has revealed a significant connection between colder weather and increased risks of gastroenteritis among Rohingya refugees living in camps in Bangladesh. The research focused on the Kutupalong and Nayapara refugee settlements, where overcrowded conditions and limited access to clean water exacerbate public health issues. Gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by viral or bacterial infections, results in symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

The study analyzed over 64,000 cases of gastroenteritis reported in clinics managed by UNHCR from 2019 to 2021. It found that when temperatures drop below or rise above a reference point of 26°C, the likelihood of infection increases. Specifically, in Kutupalong, the risk was lowest around 26°C, with both extreme cold and heat raising the risk levels. Conversely, in Nayapara, colder temperatures steadily increased disease risk, with no clear threshold. Notably, the study observed a delayed effect of cold weather, with peak cases occurring approximately 18 days after exposure to lower temperatures.

Experts explain that viral pathogens like norovirus and rotavirus are more prevalent during colder periods, lasting up to two weeks, while warmer conditions favor bacterial infections such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, which tend to cause shorter illnesses. This research underscores the importance of climate considerations in managing infectious disease outbreaks, particularly in vulnerable displaced populations.

The findings highlight the broader impact of climate change on global health, emphasizing the need for improved health system resilience in refugee camps. As climate variability increases, proactive strategies are essential to protect these vulnerable communities from weather-related health risks. Researchers advocate for urgent action by policymakers and humanitarian organizations to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and implement climate-adaptive health interventions.

This study contributes vital knowledge for addressing the health challenges driven by climate change and reinforces the importance of integrating environmental factors into public health planning for displaced populations.