Warning of a Health Catastrophe in Gaza Due to the Spread of Serious Rodent-Borne Diseases
Journalists and health experts are warning of a health catastrophe unfolding in the Gaza Strip as a result of the widespread outbreak of rodent-borne diseases. This comes amidst a severe environmental deterioration and the near-total collapse of the health system, both consequences of the ongoing aggression and blockade.
Field reports indicate a growing number of illnesses, including high fevers, acute infections, diarrhea, and skin and respiratory diseases, particularly among children and the elderly. There are serious concerns about the spread of epidemics in an environment lacking clean water, sanitation facilities, and basic healthcare.
Experts confirm that the accumulation of waste, sewage overflows, and the proliferation of rats in residential areas and shelters have created an ideal environment for the transmission of infection. This occurs at a time when hospitals are suffering from a severe shortage of medicines, antibiotics, and medical supplies, as well as power outages and fuel shortages that hinder the operation of vital departments and laboratories.
Children, the sick, and the elderly are the most vulnerable, given their weakened immune systems and malnutrition, making any delay in medical intervention a direct threat to life.
The statement holds the occupying authorities fully responsible for this health catastrophe, resulting from the destruction of infrastructure and the prevention of the entry of medicines, medical supplies, and sterilization materials, in flagrant violation of international humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions.
The statement also calls on the World Health Organization, the United Nations, and international humanitarian organizations to take urgent and immediate action to:
• Immediately allow the entry of medicines, antibiotics, and sterilization materials.
• Provide financial and logistical support to hospitals and health centers.
• Send specialized medical and epidemiological teams to assess and contain the situation.
• Exert pressure to lift the blockade and ensure the unhindered delivery of aid.
The statement concludes by emphasizing that what is happening in Gaza is not a passing health crisis, but a worsening humanitarian catastrophe, and that international silence is exacerbating the danger. It warns that continuing to ignore these warnings could lead to the spread of epidemics that will be difficult to contain later.
التاريخ 22-1-2026
