The United Nations has reported a sharp increase in chickenpox cases among displaced Palestinian children in Gaza, warning that overcrowded shelters and deteriorating living conditions are accelerating the spread of infectious diseases. Nearly 9,300 cases have been recorded over the past two weeks, with more than half reported in Khan Younis, according to the UN.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said the worsening humanitarian situation has created conditions that allow communicable diseases to spread rapidly, particularly among children living in displacement camps.
Overcrowding and Poor Sanitation Driving Infections
OCHA said overcrowded shelters, accumulated waste, limited access to clean water, and the collapse of sewage systems are major factors contributing to the rise in chickenpox infections.
The agency warned that chickenpox has become a growing public health concern as healthcare services struggle to cope with increasing medical needs.
Skin and Waterborne Diseases Also Increasing
According to the UN, respiratory and skin diseases remain the most commonly reported health conditions across Gaza. Waterborne illnesses are also on the rise, particularly in Khan Younis, where sanitation conditions have continued to deteriorate.
The report said more than 18,000 new cases of skin-related illnesses—including chickenpox, ectoparasitic skin infections, and impetigo—were recorded during the past week alone.
Health System Under Severe Strain
The UN said Gaza’s healthcare system has been severely weakened by the ongoing conflict, with hospitals and medical infrastructure sustaining extensive damage.
Health facilities continue to face critical shortages of medicines, fuel, and medical supplies, limiting their ability to respond to growing healthcare needs.
According to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, the conflict has resulted in 73,250 deaths and 173,751 injuries in Gaza since the war began. The ministry also said that around 90% of the territory’s infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed.
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