Paris - In view of the recent fighting in Ivory Coast, the international medical aid agency MSF has decided to reinforce its team in the country, in order to be better prepared to intervene in the areas where rebel forces are fighting with the government army.

MSF is ready to look after war wounded and provide care in the event of massive displacement of people. An emergency team arrived last week in Abidjan and a surgical team is on stand-by, ready to leave as soon as the need for them has been established.

A cargo place is leaving to Abidjan from France tonight. On board will be over 10 tonnes of medical, surgical and logistical material, including blankets, tents and plastic sheeting.

MSF is particularly concerned by the increase in incidents and threats against non-Ivorians living in the insecure districts of Abidjan. We will be closely monitoring how the situation in the capital develops.

MSF has worked in Ivory Coast since 1990. Our day-to-day medical work with 5000 detainees in Abidjan's Central Prison (known locally as 'le MACA'), continues.