The Indonesian Pediatrician Association (IDAI) has deployed 70 pediatric specialists to areas of Sumatra affected by recent flash floods and landslides. The specialists are providing emergency medical services to children, pregnant women, and caregivers in the disaster-stricken provinces of Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra.
Sumatra Disaster Response: Pediatric Care Underway
The IDAI dispatched the specialists to work in areas including Medan and Langkat in North Sumatra, and Aceh Tamiang in Aceh, according to Eka Airlangga, Vice Chair of IDAI in North Sumatra. The humanitarian operation aims to address the health needs of those impacted by the ecological disasters that began on November 25, 2025.
Medical teams have identified cases of Acute Respiratory Infections (ARI) as a significant concern post-disaster, alongside dermatitis, skin infections, diarrhea, and gastroenteritis. They are also providing care for pregnant women and caregivers experiencing hypertension, digestive disorders, arthritis, and psychological problems.
Aceh Tamiang has been identified as the most severely affected area, with 15 community health centers and one regional public hospital operating at limited capacity. Efforts are focused on strengthening healthcare services in the region.
As of December 22, 2025, the IDAI team has treated approximately 4,575 children across affected locations. Services in North Sumatra were delivered in Medan, Langkat, Sibolga, and isolated areas of Central Tapanuli, some accessible only by foot or helicopter. In Aceh Tamiang, care was provided in Seumadam, Paya Bedi, and areas surrounding the Regional Public Hospital, Ranto, and Bukit Tempurung.
The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reported that the disasters have resulted in 1,106 deaths, 7,000 injuries, and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people. 175 individuals remain missing. Damage includes 147,236 houses, 1,600 public facilities, 967 educational facilities, 434 places of worship, 290 buildings or offices, 219 healthcare facilities, and 145 bridges across 52 regencies.
Read: Disasters Leave Children in Indonesia at Risk of Sleep Disorders and PTSD
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