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According to the 2023 flood risk assessment and the current population distribution, many IDPs are located near flooding hotspots. Considering the level of devastation caused by the war, other locations may now be at risk of flooding. The Health and WASH Clusters are concerned about the potential public health related to flooding, which include:
- Injuries and drowning: rapid flooding, especially in dip areas where water can easily and quickly
accumulate, reaching dangerous levels.
- Disruption of healthcare services: 114/242(47%) health service points are near flooding hotspot. Their proximity puts them at high risk of damage during flooding and leaves the population without access to
essential health services, which will increase health needs in the event of flooding.
- Waterborne diseases: contamination of water supplies by sewage increasing the risk of waterborne
diseases.
- Vector-borne diseases: Flooding creates stagnant water pools which can become breeding sites for
mosquitoes, increasing the risk of diseases such as West Nile Fever.
- Sanitation: Flooding can damage sanitation infrastructure and disrupt waste management systems, including the management of medical waste and general waste. The breakdown of these systems raises the risk of disease transmission. Additionally, temporary structures and tents are vulnerable to damage, further exacerbating health risks.
- Snakebites: The presence of farms in certain areas like Deir Al-Balah increases the risk of snakebites during and after flooding.
- Mental health and long-term health impact: The stress and disruption caused by flooding can exacerbate psychological stress and chronic conditions. In addition, the effects of exposure to mould, chemicals, and other environmental hazards can lead to respiratory issues and other health problems.
We ask for an immediate and sustained ceasefire in order to start the reconstruction process before winter.