A spokesperson for the World Health Organization, Margaret Harris, stated today that a larger number of Gaza's population is at risk of dying from diseases compared to shelling, unless the healthcare system in the area is rapidly supported to return to normalcy. She described the collapse of Al-Shifa Hospital in northern Gaza as a "tragedy" and expressed concern over the Israeli forces' detention of some of its medical staff.
Harris emphasized worries about an increase in the spread of infectious diseases, particularly diarrhea. She cited a United Nations report on the living conditions of displaced people in northern Gaza, noting, "There are no medicines, no vaccination activities, no access to safe drinking water, personal hygiene, or food. We have seen very high cases of diarrhea among infants."
James Elder, a spokesperson for UNICEF in Gaza, told reporters via video link that hospitals in the area are filled with children injured in the war as well as those suffering from gastroenteritis due to drinking contaminated water. He added, "I have met many parents who know exactly what their children need. They cannot obtain safe drinking water, which is very harsh for them." He recounted seeing a child who had lost part of his leg lying on the hospital floor for several hours without receiving treatment due to the lack of medical staff.