The World Health Organization (WHO) reported more than 17,000 cases of rodent and external parasite-borne illnesses among displaced Palestinians in the Gaza Strip since the beginning of the year, amid deteriorating health and humanitarian conditions resulting from the Israeli offensive.
In a statement, the WHO said that the “desperate and dangerous” conditions in Gaza continue to hinder recovery efforts, noting the high rates of infection among families at a time when the health sector lacks the necessary medical supplies and equipment to respond.
The organization estimated the damage to the health sector at approximately $1.4 billion, noting that more than 1,800 health facilities have been partially or completely destroyed, including major hospitals such as Al-Shifa Hospital, as well as primary care centers, clinics, pharmacies, and laboratories.
