Gaza:Bashar Murad, director of health programs at the Palestinian Red Crescent Society in the Gaza Strip, has issued a warning regarding the deteriorating health and humanitarian conditions in the region. The recent storm has led to the flooding of approximately 70,000 tents, impacting tens of thousands of Palestinians and exacerbating the ongoing shortages of medicines, medical supplies, and heating equipment.
According to Palestine news & Information Agency – WAFA – English, Murad expressed concerns about the potential spread of diseases and epidemics due to the mixing of rainwater with sewage in displacement camps. He reported an increase in upper respiratory tract infections and meningitis cases, aggravated by the plummeting temperatures and a lack of winter clothing and heating facilities.
Murad highlighted the absence of MRI machines in Gaza and the limited availability of CT scanners as critical issues. Additionally, he pointed out the severe shortages of medical solutions and laboratory supplies, which have forced several laboratories to halt their operations.
The inability to perform basic medical tests is particularly concerning for patients with chronic illnesses, as it complicates the diagnosis and monitoring of conditions, ultimately putting patients' lives at risk.