Concerns have been raised by health authorities that children in flood affected areas of the west aren’t eating well, making them vulnerable to malnutrition.

The concern prompted a nutrition survey by the Health Ministry to track deficiencies like anaemia after the recent floods.

Ministry Spokesperson Peni Namotu says according to the most recent survey, there were indications that there was vulnerability for toddlers to have malnutrition especially micro nutrient deficiency.

“We have conducted a survey on about 300 children under the age of five from Sigatoka to Rakiraki. We now await the results but at the same time we have been counselling parents on the right type of food children need at that important age.”

Dietitians based in the west have been in contact with parents telling them of the importance of giving their children the right foods.

Namotu says food given to children from a very young age will determine their intelligence later in life.