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Six young children in a refugee camp on the Greek island of Samos have been diagnosed with moderate to severe acute malnutrition, raising new concerns about the health and safety of children in EU-funded facilities.

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) confirmed that the children, aged between six months and six years, needed urgent medical help. They were identified during routine health checks carried out by MSF staff inside the camp.

The children had arrived over the past three months, traveling with their families from Afghanistan and Syria. Their condition has been made worse by poor living standards in the camp, MSF said.

Malnourished After Long Journeys and Harsh Camp Life

MSF could not confirm whether the children were already malnourished before arriving. But the group said the camp’s harsh conditions likely worsened their health.

“There is food, but it doesn’t meet the needs of babies and small children,” said Christina Psarra, MSF’s country director in Greece. “These children suffered before arriving, and the camp’s environment intensified their condition.”

The children were found during medical checks inside the Samos Closed Controlled Access Centre (CCAC), a facility built in 2021 with EU funds.

Poor Living Conditions Are Making Children Sick

The camp holds more than 3,100 people, with children making up about 25% of the population.

Although the camp was designed to replace older overcrowded shelters, rights groups say it still lacks basic services. It sits on a remote hillside, far from hospitals and town centers.

There are reports of poor hygiene, limited clean water, and little access to proper healthcare.

MSF also pointed out that asylum seekers stopped receiving financial aid nine months ago. Without money, families can’t buy fresh fruits, vegetables, or baby food.

“These families lost their last option to supplement their diet,” Psarra said. “Conditions inside the camp create barriers to basic dignity and health.”

No Pediatric Care, Limited Support

MSF warned that pediatric services are not available inside the camp or even on the island itself.

This lack of care leaves children vulnerable. Many arrive already weak from the long journey and then face further health problems inside the facility.

The group has called on both Greek and EU officials to take immediate action. They want urgent medical services for the children and better camp conditions.

Dangerous Routes, Growing Risks

Refugees continue to arrive in Greece, mostly crossing by sea from Turkey. Many make the journey in small inflatable boats that are unsafe for open water.

Greece remains one of the top entry points into Europe for people fleeing war, hunger, and poverty.

Last week, a boat sank near Lesbos, killing at least seven people, including three children. Another 23 people were rescued and taken to a camp on the island.

“These are children already scarred by hardship,” Psarra said. “The camp only deepens their suffering.”

The Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum has not yet responded to MSF’s findings.

MSF is urging Greek and EU authorities to ensure proper food, shelter, and medical care for all children in migrant camps. They say these measures must happen now—before more lives are at risk.

The situation remains critical, and the lives of vulnerable children depend on fast and firm action.