Challenges and risk factors for infectious diseases in Gaza due to the current conflict.

Abstract

Background: The current conflict in Gaza has been particularly catastrophic, resulting in over 40 000 deaths, 90 000 injuries and extensive damage to infrastructure. Displaced residents now live in crowded shelters.

Aim: To highlight how the current conditions contribute to the spread of infectious diseases among the displaced.

Methods: This is a narrative review of the situation in Gaza during the October 2023 war. It was based on observations in the Gaza Strip and published reports.

Results: Due to the war, Gaza is faced with contaminated water sources, damaged sewage systems, severe overcrowding, waste accumulation, high insect populations, damaged health facilities, and insufficient vaccination coverage. As a result, diseases such as scabies, chickenpox, hepatitis A, respiratory infections, diarrheal diseases, and polio have emerged, with the first polio case reported in Deir al-Balah in an unvaccinated child.

Conclusion: There is a need for coordinated local and international interventions to ensure the provision of potable water, resume immunization campaigns, provide food and other material aid, ensure proper waste management, increase awareness of disease risks, and strengthen health systems to support the control of diseases.