Threat of epidemics in Gaza

[laststeamtrain]

Threat of epidemics in Gaza

RAMALLAH, 9 January 2009 (IRIN) - The total halt to vaccinations in Gaza since the Israeli offensive began on 27 December could result in epidemics, a risk increased by Gaza’s high population density and dire living conditions, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned on 8 January.

Some 1.5 million Palestinians live in the 365sqkm coastal Strip.

"If vaccinations are stopped for one or two weeks this is enough to cause a widespread outbreak of avoidable diseases - such as measles, hepatitis and polio - amongst children and the larger population," WHO health officer Mahmoud Daher told IRIN by telephone from Gaza.

"Efforts have been made for 15 years here to stop these diseases. One or two weeks of an interruption of vaccination programmes can create a risk," warned Daher.

Health sector NGOs in the region are also raising warning flags.

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http://www.irinnews.org/report.aspx?ReportID=82286

[bemildred]

1. Yep, I reckon it could even spread outside Gaza, eh?

You just never know.

[Maccagirl]

2. The children I see on the news look so traumatized

that I dare not think about the future. Gaza looks like hell on earth.

[PFunk]

3. I hate to say this but I hope this blows back on isreal itself.

It certainly deserves it for what it has done to Gaza.

[GoesTo11]

4. That's idiotic to say

Just idiotic.

Typical of people who can't spell Israel.