In Gaza, doctors are reporting that patients arriving at hospitals are displaying symptoms of diseases caused by overcrowding and poor sanitation. This situation has arisen after more than 1.4 million people were forced to leave their homes and seek shelter due to the heaviest-ever bombardment by Israel. The living conditions in temporary shelters, coupled with the ongoing Israeli blockade that restricts access to electricity, clean water, and fuel, have created a breeding ground for the spread of diseases.
The situation is particularly dire as many hospitals have run out of fuel to power essential equipment, such as incubators for newborns, putting lives at risk. Additionally, several medical centers have had to suspend operations due to the ongoing bombardment and the strain on the healthcare system.
As Gaza’s health system disintegrates, WHO calls for safe passage of fuel, supplies for health facilities
WHO remains unable to distribute fuel and essential, life-saving health supplies to major hospitals in northern Gaza due to lack of security guarantees. WHO calls for an… pic.twitter.com/naftum0ANy
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) October 24, 2023
Furthermore, overcrowded and unsanitary conditions in the temporary shelters have led to an increase in health issues, including stomach complaints, lung infections, and rashes among the displaced population. The lack of adequate facilities and blankets in these shelters has made the situation even more challenging, especially for children.
In addition to these health concerns, there are worries about running out of over-the-counter medicines and treatments for chronic illnesses due to the limited availability of supplies.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has taken a severe toll on the healthcare system, living conditions, and the overall well-being of the population, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
