Critical Oxygen Crisis Threatens Lives of Newborns and Premature Babies in Gaza
Palestinian health sources in Gaza have sounded the alarm on Sunday over a critical oxygen crisis that threatens the lives of newborns and premature babies. This alarming situation is a direct result of the ongoing Israeli aggression against the Gaza Strip for over two years, which has led to massive destruction of the enclave's healthcare infrastructure.
According to these sources, the destruction and violence have had a catastrophic impact on the hospitals' ability to provide medical equipment and oxygen to children, particularly premature babies.
Destruction of Vital Infrastructure
The Al-Shifa Hospital once housed several specialized neonatology services, supported by an oxygen production plant. However, the extensive damage suffered by the hospital has resulted in the complete loss of these vital capacities.
Medical authorities emphasize that the oxygen shortage persists, and incubators now rely on mobile oxygen bottles. This emergency system poses a constant danger to the lives of newborns in the event of a supply disruption.
Medical Staff Confronting the Crisis
Dr. Khaled Abou Khoussa, a pediatric consultant at Al-Rantisi Hospital, noted that the neonatology service is one of the most sensitive departments in the hospital, caring for newborns up to 28 days old.
"Many of the newborns we care for have an urgent need for oxygen, a factor that largely depends on the mother's health and immunity," Dr. Abou Khoussa explained. "In the event of an oxygen shortage, we are sometimes forced to transfer them to other hospitals where the supply is ensured continuously."
He also stated that medical staff are sometimes forced to resort to rudimentary alternative methods to help children breathe, as the oxygen production stations are completely out of operation.
Catastrophic Material Balance
According to Palestinian health sources, Israeli forces have destroyed approximately 25 of the 34 oxygen production stations in the Gaza Strip over the past two years. To date, only 9 stations are still operational in the enclave, and they only function partially, which is largely insufficient to meet the vital needs of patients.
This critical oxygen crisis in Gaza highlights the devastating impact of the ongoing Israeli aggression on the enclave's healthcare infrastructure and the dire need for immediate action to address this humanitarian crisis.
