Ministry of Health: Infectious diseases are affecting children in Gaza

Palestinian Ministry of Health spokesperson Khalil al-Daqran stated that the health sector has been facing unprecedented pressure since the ceasefire was declared, due to a significant increase in the number of patients visiting hospitals, particularly children.

Al-Daqran explained that infectious diseases, especially respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses, are widespread among children, which has doubled the pressure on health facilities.

He noted that the number of patients exceeds the hospitals’ bed capacity by approximately four times the number of available beds.

He added that this difficult health situation coincides with forecasts of harsh weather conditions during the winter, including cold waves, rain, and strong winds, which foreshadow further challenges for the health sector and its ability to respond to patients’ needs.