Situation Report: Gaza
Key Points:
Medical Supplies Shortages: Gaza faces severe shortages of insulin, diabetes supplies (glucose meters, pen needles), and NCD medications. Cold chain infrastructure is limited, making insulin distribution challenging. The situation has worsened despite recent efforts to send aid.
Access and Distribution Challenges: Approval for aid shipments, particularly from Israel, remains a significant obstacle, with the pre-approval process for medical supplies often exceeding three months. The situation is exacerbated by Israeli restrictions and the complex logistics of getting supplies through Egypt.
Aid and Distribution Efforts: Anera has provided over 4 million treatments and operates 4 distribution centers in Gaza, though warehousing is not feasible due to the volatile situation. WHO has sent 86 NCD kits and 200,000 vials of insulin, but demand outpaces supply, with Gaza requiring 100 NCD kits per month.
On-the-Ground Conditions: Local clinics, such as Deir al Balah, report no availability of analog insulin, and critical supplies are running out. Hospitals are unable to treat conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) due to a lack of insulin. The crisis has left many children without access to essential diabetes care, and malnutrition among Type 1 diabetic patients is increasing.
Collaborative Efforts: Organizations are coordinating to manage resources and distribute aid. Efforts are underway to resupply mobile clinics through Egyptian channels, and MSF is working on orders for diabetes supplies. A WhatsApp group was proposed to streamline communication between aid groups.
Long-Term Solutions: Solar-powered refrigerators are being tested to improve cold chain storage. There is interest in involving more local voices in Gaza and Lebanon to strengthen the support network for PwDs (people with diabetes).