It also noted that cases of respiratory disease are increasing due to inadequate heating, overcrowded camps and damaged infrastructure.
“We have continued to see significant increases in influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) since the start of winter, leading to increased hospital visits and heightened public health concerns,” the Health Cluster said.
The WHO-led Health Cluster coordinates the efforts of more than 900 partners globally to address health needs in humanitarian emergencies and provides expertise, capacity and expertise to ensure an effective, life-saving response in areas at risk. Provides construction and technical guidance.
worsening situation
It added that harsh winter conditions in northwest Syria continue to exacerbate existing health vulnerabilities, particularly among internally displaced people living in temporary shelters and overcrowded camps that lack adequate insulation and heating.
Public health officials have warned that as temperatures drop, risks including hypothermia may increase.
To address these challenges, health partners have emphasized the need for targeted interventions, including better insulated shelter, heating and access to essential medical supplies.
humanitarian response
The UN and partners have also stepped up efforts to improve access to health care.
As of Wednesday, 750 trucks carrying relief supplies from seven UN agencies, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), were traveling to northwest Syria through the Bab Al-Hawa and Bab Al-Salam intersection. We crossed over, and 37 trucks arrived this week.
These deliveries include essential medical supplies, food and other humanitarian assistance.
WHO supported 37 health facilities and 14 health cluster partners with 510 trauma supply kits, enabling them to treat more than 90,000 individuals.
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) also delivered health kits and materials to strengthen sexual and reproductive health services. Mobile mental health units continue to provide psychological support to vulnerable populations, including children and IDPs, in isolated areas.
To address the critical shortage, healthcare partners such as the WATAN Foundation have deployed three mobile blood banks to collect 210 units of blood through a donation drive. Other partners are also expanding support to Aleppo hospitals, with a focus on pediatric care and trauma services.
a continuing challenge
Despite these efforts, the health crisis in northwestern Syria remains severe.
Recent landmine explosions in Idlib, Aleppo and Hama have resulted in deaths and injuries, further straining the health care system. On December 24, three explosions occurred in Idlib, killing a man and wounding others, including a child, in Aleppo.
Lack of funds is another important issue.
The health cluster needs $22 million over the next three months to maintain essential health services for 450,000 people. Severe funding shortages put 140 health facilities at risk, including general and specialist hospitals, primary health centers and dialysis units.
