Operational Response for Gaza 2019
Ongoing health response & 96-hour Contingency Planning
Executive Summary
Conflict-related trauma remains a major burden of disease on the health sector in Gaza and since the mass demonstrations by Palestinians began on 30 March 2018, every week there is a growing number of injured people in need of urgent life and limb saving interventions. According to the latest information from the Health Cluster Situation Report issued on the 31st January, 261 people have been killed; and almost 28,000 injured by Israeli security forces.
Meanwhile, there are ongoing complex and serious injuries that require specialised treatment over a period of time; which is currently not available or with limited capacity in the Gaza Strip. In addition, rates of bone infection amongst injured patients have continued to grow, increasing the risk of amputations and even death.
As Health Cluster partners respond these ongoing needs, there is also an increasing likelihood of heightened conflict in Gaza from 30 March and onwards, which marks the anniversary of the Gaza mass demonstrations. Enhancing the Health Cluster preparedness capacity to deal with the first 96 hours of the conflict is essential in order to prevent death and disability.
From the total cohort of estimated 676,522 people in need of essential healthcare in 2019, the Health Cluster partners, are able to target 555,615 people for a total of $ 28.2 million. Out of this total, $ 9.7 million has been received, leaving a funding gap of $ 18.5 million. An additional $1.5 million is required to the minimum needed resources in order to prepare for and respond to the first 96 hours of violent conflict.
The package of essential health services presented here lists the details of the ongoing response and the 96-hour contingency plan. It is in line with the Health Clusters responsive action, which in the HRP is: “Life-saving health interventions for trauma patients and access to essential health services for the most vulnerable”. The overall aim of this plan is to enhance the quality and emergency care and trauma care in Gaza to reduce conflict related mortality and morbidity.
Click here to read the full document
