Mass distribution of azithromycin can reduce the risk of death in children aged 6-59 months with acute malnutrition. In a study in Burkina Faso, children with mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) less than 12.5 cm had a 51% lower mortality rate when given azithromycin compared to a placebo. This benefit was greater for malnourished children than those without acute malnutrition. Single dose azithromycin may help save lives in children with acute malnutrition.