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According to the 2023 flood risk assessment and current population distribution, many IDPs live near flood-prone zones. Given the extent of damage caused by the war, other locations may also be at risk of flooding. The Health, Water and Sanitation Cluster is concerned about potential public health hazards related to flooding, including:
– Injuries and drowning: Rapid flooding, especially in depressions where water can easily and quickly inundate
It builds up and reaches dangerous levels.
– Healthcare disruption: 114 out of 242 (47%) health care sites are located near flood-prone areas. These sites are at high risk of being damaged during floods, making residents unable to access health care services.
Basic health services are lacking and medical needs increase during floods.
– Water-borne diseases: Contamination of water sources by sewage increases the risk of water-borne diseases
disease.
– Vector-borne diseases: Flooding creates pools of water which can become breeding grounds for vector-borne diseases.
The number of mosquitoes increases, increasing the risk of diseases such as West Nile fever.
– Sanitation: Flooding can damage sanitation infrastructure and disrupt waste management systems, including medical and municipal waste management. When these systems fail, the risk of disease transmission increases. Additionally, temporary structures and tents are vulnerable to damage, further exacerbating health risks.
– Snakebites: The presence of farms in certain areas, such as Deir al-Balah, increases the risk of snakebites during and after floods.
– Mental health and long-term health effects: The stress and disruption caused by flooding can exacerbate psychological stress and chronic conditions. Additionally, the effects of exposure to mold, chemicals and other environmental hazards can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues.
We call for an immediate and lasting ceasefire to allow the reconstruction process to begin before winter.
