In the dermatology office at Nasser Hospital in central Gaza, a continuous flow of distressed children and concerned parents seek assistance. Children with various skin conditions, such as lice, scabies, and rashes, are presenting symptoms that have spread to different parts of their bodies. Doctors attribute the widespread skin diseases to the deplorable living conditions in overcrowded tent camps in Gaza, exacerbated by the summer heat and the breakdown of sanitation due to ongoing conflicts in the region.
According to health officials, over 103,000 cases of lice and scabies and 65,000 cases of skin rashes have been reported in Gaza. The World Health Organization also notes more than 1 million cases of acute respiratory infections, over half a million cases of acute diarrhea, and more than 100,000 cases of jaundice in the population of 2.3 million in Gaza. Palestinians residing in the tent camps describe the challenging environment with no access to basic necessities like soap, shampoo, or clean water, contributing to the rapid spread of skin diseases among the residents.
The dire situation is further exacerbated by the lack of clean water, forcing some to resort to washing in saltwater from the Mediterranean. Families struggle to maintain hygiene due to the absence of clean clothes and proper sanitation facilities. The limited availability of humanitarian aid, including soap, shampoo, and medicines, adds to the challenges faced by the displaced population in Gaza.
Despite efforts by healthcare providers to address skin diseases and infections, the conditions in Gaza make it difficult to contain the spread of illnesses effectively. Dermatologists at Nasser Hospital report seeing hundreds of patients daily with various skin conditions, including scabies, lice, bacterial, fungal, and viral infections, among others. The lack of adequate medical supplies and treatment options is a significant concern, with some cases escalating to severe complications like kidney failure.
Both children and adults suffer from skin-related ailments, with patients experiencing painful symptoms and limited access to proper care. Parents struggle to alleviate their children’s discomfort as skin conditions persist in the unsanitary and crowded living conditions in Gaza. As the health crisis intensifies, the urgent need for improved sanitation, access to clean water, and essential medical supplies becomes more critical for the well-being of the displaced population in Gaza.
