Malnutrition in Gaza reaches “alarming levels” according to the WHO

Malnutrition rates in the Gaza Strip are reaching “alarming levels”, warned the World Health Organization (WHO), believing that the “deliberate blockage” of humanitarian aid has cost many inhabitants.

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“Malnutrition follows a dangerous trajectory in the Gaza Strip. Consequently, marked by a peak in death in July,” the WHO said in a statement.

Of the 74 deaths related to malnutrition identified since the start of the year. Moreover, 63 took place in July, including 24 children under the age of five, a child over five years old, and 38 adults, said the UN organization.

“Most malnutrition gaza reaches “alarming levels” of these people were declared dead on their arrival in care establishments. Meanwhile, died soon after, their bodies showing clear signs of severe weight loss.”

This crisis “remains entirely preventable. Deliberate blocking and delays in food, health and humanitarian aid on a large scale have cost many lives, “said WHO.

In Gaza-Ville. almost 20% of children under the age of five are now in a state of acute malnutrition, according to the organization, citing its partners from the “Global Nutrition Cluster”. And among children aged six months at under five. the impact of acute malnutrition has tripled since June, which makes Gaza-Ville the most affected area of the Palestinian territory.

In Khan Younès and in the center of the territory, these rates have doubled in less than a month.

However. these figures are “probably underestimated due to the serious access and security constraints preventing many families from accessing health facilities,” malnutrition gaza reaches “alarming levels” noted WHO.

Israel began a limited “tactical break” on Sunday in its military operations. in order to allow the UN and humanitarian agencies to face an increasingly alarming food crisis.

The WHO. however, called for sustained efforts to “flood” the gaza band of diversified and nutritious foods, and urgently deliver care equipment for children and vulnerable people, in addition to essential drugs and supplies.

“This flow must remain constant. unhindered to support the recovery and prevent a new deterioration,” said the UN agency based in Geneva.

According to the WHO. in the first two weeks of July, more than 5,000 children under the age of five received ambulatory treatment for malnutrition – 18 % of which suffered from the most threatening form, severe acute malnutrition (MAS).

In June, 6,500 children had already been treated for malnutrition, the highest number since the start of the war in October 2023.

In July, malnutrition gaza reaches “alarming levels” 73 other children with Mas with medical complications were hospitalized, compared to 39 in June.

“This outbreak of cases overwhelms the four centers specializing in malnutrition treatment,” said WHO.

As for pregnant. lactating women, more than 40% suffer from severe malnutrition, according to data from the “global nutrition cluster” cited by the WHO.

“It is not only hunger that kills people, but also desperate research of food. Families are forced to risk their lives for a handful of food. often in dangerous and chaotic conditions, “added the UN health agency.