The situation in Gaza is marked by a surge in dangerous diseases, especially among children. A dangerous virus, causing paralysis, is rapidly spreading due to the collapse of sanitation infrastructure and the prevalence of malnutrition. Medical facilities are overwhelmed, and treatment options are severely limited.
Before October 2023, the disease was rare, with only about 12 cases annually. However, approximately 100 new cases have been recorded in the last three months. The WHO acknowledges that while improved monitoring contributes to identifying cases, the lack of adequate healthcare, malnutrition, and unsanitary conditions are also factors. The primary cause is the destruction of the sewage system, leading to contaminated water sources.