Home / Health / Gaza Floods Worsen Respiratory Crisis: WHO Warns
Gaza Floods Worsen Respiratory Crisis: WHO Warns
15 Nov
Summary
- WHO reports 33,000 more respiratory infections than last year.
- Heavy rains flooded tents housing displaced Palestinians, worsening conditions.
- WHO urges allowing laboratory equipment into Gaza to prevent disaster.
The World Health Organization issued a stark warning on Friday, November 13, 2026, regarding a significant increase in respiratory illnesses in Gaza. Dr. Reinhilde Van De Weerdt reported 33,000 more cases of acute respiratory infections compared to the same period last year. This surge is attributed to deteriorating living conditions and severe overcrowding among the displaced population.
Heavy rainfall has exacerbated the crisis by flooding tens of thousands of tents, intensifying the spread of viruses. The WHO representative noted that winter has not fully set in, and the situation is expected to worsen considerably. Nearly a million displaced individuals reside in flood-exposed areas, with 400,000 at extreme risk.
The flooding raises concerns about contaminated water and increased breeding of pests, while dampness fuels mold and bacteria, particularly affecting young children. The WHO is facing challenges in obtaining vital laboratory supplies for diagnosis, urging for their immediate entry to avert a major public health disaster.
