The Lancet Report: Common Diseases Pose Lethal Threat in Gaza Amidst Conflict

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has left Gaza in ruins, with tens of thousands dead and injured. Beyond the immediate effects of bombings and starvation, a report in The Lancet sheds light on the critical role of common diseases in causing fatalities. The report indicates that antibiotic-resistant infections are prevalent in Gaza, leading to extended suffering, disease progression, and increased mortality. The study, published in the Lancet Infectious Diseases journal, reveals a surge in multi-drug-resistant bacteria since October 2023. These bacteria are immune to the effects of many medications, complicating treatment. The research collected over 1,300 samples from Gaza’s Al-Ahli Hospital, with a majority of samples coming from individuals wounded by attacks. A significant percentage of these samples showed resistance to various drugs. The WHO has expressed concerns regarding the depletion of medical supplies and the strain on healthcare facilities. With over half the medications gone, hospitals exceeding capacity, and many facilities non-operational, the study emphasizes that the situation will deteriorate if the conflict and attacks continue.