'If we sleep they bite': Rats and weasels infest camps for displaced Gazans
Summary
Camps for displaced people in Gaza are facing serious problems with rats, weasels, and other pests. These animals are biting residents, spreading disease, and thriving in the large piles of rubbish and sewage around overcrowded camps. Aid groups and the UN warn that urgent health actions and large-scale cleanup efforts are needed to prevent a public health crisis.Key Facts
- A newborn baby and other vulnerable people have been bitten by rats and weasels in Gaza’s displaced persons camps.
- Rodents and pests are visible in 80% of the places where about 1.45 million displaced Gazans live.
- Rats and weasels carry diseases that can cause infections, skin and respiratory illnesses, and food poisoning.
- The destroyed living conditions, including piles of rubbish and running sewage, have created ideal breeding grounds for pests.
- No major reconstruction or delivery of temporary homes has occurred since the war and ceasefire deal over six months ago.
- Aid workers say a large-scale cleanup and pest control campaign is urgently needed, along with repair of water and sanitation systems.
- The Israeli body controlling Gaza crossings says it is working with international groups to improve sanitation there.
- Many families keep watch at night to protect children and their belongings from pest attacks.
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