UN warns Gaza health system near collapse as winter approaches
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UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric warned that Gaza's health system, already at capacity, cannot absorb new surges in disease as winter approaches. He relayed WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus's call for increased access to laboratory supplies, essential medicines, and rehabilitation equipment. The UN and partners continue winter preparations but urgently need more resources and access.
Key Facts
- WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned that Gaza's health system, already at capacity, cannot absorb new surges in disease and illness.
- UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said flooding from winter rains could spread sewage and contaminated water into densely populated areas, increasing disease risk.
- Ghebreyesus called for increased access to limited laboratory and diagnostic supplies, essential medicines, rehabilitation equipment, and public health services.
- The UN and humanitarian partners in Gaza urgently need more resources and access to adequately support Palestinians' preparations for the rainy season.
Health System Strain
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned that Gaza's health system, already operating at the limits of its capacity, cannot withstand new surges in disease and illness. UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric relayed this assessment during a daily press briefing on developments in the Middle East. Palestinians in Gaza are forced to live in overcrowded tent camps, which exacerbates public health risks as winter approaches.
Winter Flooding Risks
Dujarric noted that as winter progresses and rains begin, floodwaters could spread sewage and contaminated water into densely populated areas, increasing the risk of disease. Ghebreyesus called for increased access to limited laboratory and diagnostic supplies, essential medicines, rehabilitation equipment, and public health services. The UN and its humanitarian partners in Gaza continue to support Palestinians' preparations for the rainy season. However, Dujarric stressed that this support can only be sufficient with urgently needed additional resources and access.
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