Gaza Doctors Struggle to Care for Patients Amid Deepening Hunger Crisis

Doctors in Gaza are facing a dire situation. They are struggling to provide care due to severe hunger and a lack of food. Many medical staff have reached a point where they’re too weak to perform even the most urgent tasks.

Dr. Mohammed Abu Selmia, the head of al-Shifa hospital, described the intense exhaustion affecting his staff. Many have fainted while trying to operate, and they have not received any meals for over 48 hours. “Medical care will suffer,” he warned, as the medical team is on the brink of collapse.

One physician shared a concerning story. After a long 24-hour shift, he was told there was no rice available for the staff meal. Despite treating numerous patients, he felt unable to stand. Others are in similar situations, desperately trying to feed their families with no resources available. One general practitioner expressed his frustration, saying he hasn’t eaten in a day and is worried about feeding his family.

The growing malnourishment among patients is alarming. A surgeon at Nasser medical complex noted a surge in patients with symptoms like fainting and low blood sugar. Malnutrition is leading to complications after surgery, which places additional stress on an already overwhelmed medical staff.

Abu Selmia highlighted the increase in malnutrition-related issues. He mentioned that in just three days, 21 children had died from starvation and malnourishment in Gaza. The need for special nutrition is critical, yet unavailable. People are suffering in silence, with many passing away at home, unnoticed.

Meanwhile, Philippe Lazzarini, the head of UNRWA, reported that healthcare and aid workers are also fainting from hunger. Some staff are forced to choose between caring for patients or searching for food.

Others are nervous about visiting food distribution sites managed by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, as these locations are heavily guarded by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). It’s a risky choice, as over 1,000 people have died while seeking food from these centers since May.

The healthcare system in Gaza has been shattered over the last 23 months of conflict. According to the World Health Organization, at least 94% of hospitals in Gaza have been damaged or destroyed, leaving only a fraction operational.

Muath Alser, director of Healthcare Worker Watch, stated that healthcare workers are reporting unprecedented food insecurity and severe fatigue. He stressed the need for immediate action, saying condemnation alone isn’t enough.

The IDF has claimed that it is working on improving the distribution of aid. They stated that measures are being taken to ensure the safety of civilians at these food distribution centers.

In this difficult time, the resilience of medical staff in Gaza is being tested like never before. Their courage and dedication shine through, yet the urgency to address their basic needs has never been clearer.



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