Gaza city: Medical sources in the Gaza Strip announced on Tuesday that the death toll had risen to 67,173, while the number of injured has reached 169,780, including 20,179 children, 10,427 women, 4,813 elderly people, and 31,754 men.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency – WAFA, the ongoing genocide has severely impacted Gaza’s health system. The number of medical personnel martyred has reached 1,701, and 362 detainees are being held in conditions of enforced disappearance and detention. Of the total 38 hospitals, 25 are out of service, while 13 operate under difficult conditions. Furthermore, 103 primary healthcare centers have been destroyed, with only 54 operating partially.
The interruption of medical supplies and access to hospitals has worsened the shortage of essential medicines and equipment, with 55% of medicines, 66% of medical supplies, and 68% of laboratory supplies out of stock. Hospital bed occupancy rates rose to 225% by the end of last September, a significant increase from 82% the previous year.
Targeting of health facilities has destroyed critical infrastructure, including 25 of the 35 oxygen generating stations and 61 of the 110 generators. Famine levels are critical, with 460 deaths due to starvation and malnutrition, including 154 children. Additionally, 51,196 children under five suffer from severe malnutrition.
Overcrowding in forced assembly areas has worsened health conditions, with a lack of necessities leading to disease spread, lack of clean water, and food deprivation. Routine and emergency vaccinations have been denied, reducing childhood vaccination coverage to 80% and halting the fourth phase of polio vaccination, increasing disease spread risks.
There are 4,900 cases requiring supportive equipment and rehabilitation. The closure of crossings has prevented 18,000 patients, including 5,580 children, from seeking treatment abroad. Despite the dangers, medical personnel in Gaza City continue their duties under threat to their safety and that of the wounded.
