GAZA CITY: In a distressing announcement, the health ministry in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday reported that it has depleted its supply of children’s vaccines, raising concerns about “catastrophic health repercussions.”
This comes over two months into the ongoing Israeli bombardments in Gaza, and international aid organizations have consistently warned about the dire conditions prevailing in the densely populated Palestinian territory.
Tedros Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), underscored the severity of the situation, stating that “Gaza’s health system is on its knees and collapsing.” Ghebreyesus pointed out that 14 out of the 36 hospitals in Gaza are only partially functioning, with essential supplies running critically low.
Dire Health Conditions in Gaza Amidst Israeli Bombardments
He expressed particular concern about the looming winter conditions, which could exacerbate the already precarious health situation in the region. “The risk is expected to worsen with the deteriorating situation and approaching winter conditions,” warned Ghebreyesus.
In response to the alarming shortage of children’s vaccines, the Gaza health ministry urgently called on international institutions to intervene and deliver the necessary vaccines to avert a potential disaster. The strained healthcare system in Gaza, coupled with the impact of ongoing conflict and dire living conditions, has created a perilous environment for the Palestinian population.
Since the launch of Israel’s bombing and ground offensive on October 7, the Gaza health ministry reported a devastating toll, with over 18,400 Palestinian have been killed, mostly women and children.
