In numbers: How Israeli strikes brought Gaza's healthcare to the brink
Attacks were launched on the Al-Ahli Hospital on April 13, the Nasser Hospital on May 13 and 19, the European Gaza Hospital on May 13, and the Al-Awda Hospital on May 15.According to the WHO, between October 7, 2023 and May 7 this year, Israel launched a total of 686 attacks in Gaza that affected 122 healthcare facilities and 33 hospitals. About 180 ambulances were also destroyed. Right now, in Rafah, there are no functioning primary and secondary healthcare services. Over this period, more than 1,400 doctors, nurses and other medical staff were also killed.advertisementThe WHO reported that in northern Gaza, the Indonesian, Kamal Adwan, and Al Awda hospitals, along with three primary care centres and four medical points, were within the evacuation zone announced on May 20. Another two hospitals, four primary care centres, and six medical points lie within 1,000 metres of it.IN NUMBERSThe WHO's Health Resources and Services Availability Monitoring System evaluated 99 health service delivery units (HSDUs) in the Gaza Strip. These include hospitals, primary health centres, mobile clinics, and field hospitals.Only two HSDUs are fully functional, while 47 are partially functional, 32 are non-functional, and 18 have been fully destroyedOnly 26 medical buildings remain intact, 54 have been partially damaged, and 18 have been fully destroyedOnly 22 HSDUs have fully intact equipment, 44 have partially damaged equipment, and 33 have been destroyed completelyBASIC AMENITIES LACKINGOut of the 49 HSDUs that are fully or partially functioning, only six per cent have fully available intensive care unit beds; in 18 per cent, they are partially available. It's the same with maternity beds: only eight per cent have fully available maternity beds, while 16 per cent have partial availability. Only 16 per cent of them have emergency room beds.Power supply in hospitals and medical units is essential. But only 29 per cent of health units have a fully available power connection, while 65 per cent have a partially available power connection. Cold chains are also crucial as they ensure the proper storage of vaccines. Only 35 per cent of medical units in Gaza have a properly available cold chain, 33 per cent have partially available cold chains, while 32 per cent have none.There is zero availability of magnetic resonance imaging or MRI in any government hospital, field hospital, or medical unit in Gaza. Only five per cent have burn treatment services, 32 per cent have basic x-ray facilities, 25 per cent have computed tomography or CT scan services, and only 15 per cent have an available blood bank.The Israeli blockade of aid has also led to depletion of essential medical supplies, lack of food and water, and rationing of supplementary food for babies.Israel's stand on this strikeIsrael has justified its actions by saying that Hamas uses hospitals for military activities such as weapon storage. Israeli officials said the May 13 attack on the Gaza European Hospital targeted Hamas leaders, who they suspected were hiding in underground bunkers.Must Watch
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Time of India
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The virus can infect neurons and trigger neuroinflammation, disrupting normal brain function and potentially influencing cognition, emotional regulation, and overall mental well-being. These findings underscore the need for broader awareness of herpes beyond its skin-related manifestations. Understanding the virus's full spectrum of effects can help medical professionals develop targeted treatment strategies, including antiviral therapies and interventions to support neurological and psychological health. For individuals living with herpes, early detection, regular monitoring, and comprehensive care can significantly improve quality of life and reduce the risk of complications. Understanding herpes virus and its neurological impact Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) is a strain of the herpes virus that can infect a variety of cells, including neurons in the brain. Research published in Frontiers in Microbiology demonstrates that HHV-6 has the ability to target Purkinje cells in the cerebellum, which play a vital role in motor control, coordination, and cognitive functions. Infection of these neurons can interfere with normal brain activity, potentially leading to cognitive disturbances, impaired motor skills, and an increased risk of mood disorders such as depression or bipolar disorder. These findings highlight that herpes is far more than a skin or genital infection, it can have profound effects on neurological and psychological health. Understanding the virus's broader impact is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies, early detection protocols, and preventive measures. By recognizing the full scope of HHV-6's potential effects on the brain, medical professionals and patients alike can adopt more comprehensive approaches to managing and mitigating its long-term consequences. 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Indian Express
5 hours ago
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News18
5 hours ago
- News18
Stray dogs issue needs to be resolved, not contested: Delhi Govt to SC
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