WHO warns of deteriorating health situation due to rising water pollution levels in Gaza

Geneva, January 9 (KUNA) -- The World Health Organization (WHO) warned today, Tuesday, of a deterioration in health and environmental conditions in the Gaza Strip due to rising water pollution levels, overflowing sewage, accumulating waste, and overcrowding in displacement sites, coinciding with the approach of the rainy season and winter.

Rinheild van der Vliet, WHO Representative in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, said during a media briefing in Geneva that the number of acute diarrhea cases rose from approximately 30,000 in March to more than 58,000 last August due to water contamination. She called for the accelerated, barrier-free entry of medicines, medical and laboratory supplies, and rehabilitation equipment into the Strip.

She expressed concern over the shortage of water and its declining quality, noting that microbiological contamination had nearly tripled this year, with contamination rates rising from just under 6 percent in January to around 20 percent in August, based on more than 6,500 water samples tested.

She explained that high humidity and dirt inside shelters have increased the risk of various diseases, including respiratory illnesses, particularly among children.

The organization renewed its call for the rapid, barrier-free entry of humanitarian and medical aid into the Gaza Strip, warning that continued restrictions on supplies could heighten the risk of a public health disaster. (End) A.M.Kh / S.M.A