<prompt> Severe acute malnutrition SAM according to the WHO criteria is:Weight for age less than median plus -2SDWeight for height less than median plus 2SDWeight for age less than median plus 3SDWeight for height less than median minus -3SD  <response>: Severe acute malnutrition SAM according to the WHO criteria is Weight for height less than median minus -3SD. Severe acute malnutrition SAM in children of ages 6 to 59 months is defined by the WHO as any of the following: Weight-for-length or height below -3SD of the WHO child growth standards. Presence of bipedal edema Mid-Upper arm circumference 11.5cm Ref: Ghai Essential Pediatrics 9th edition PGno: 97 