UNICEF warns of rising malnutrition among children, pregnant women in Gaza

GAZA, Dec. 10 (YPA) -The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said on Tuesday that thousands of children have been admitted to hospitals in Gaza for treatment of severe malnutrition since the ceasefire in October.

UNICEF confirmed that 9,300 children received treatment for severe malnutrition in October.

Speaking to journalists in Geneva via video link, UNICEF Communication Manager Tess Ingram stated that although the number has declined from its peak of more than 14,000 children in August, it remains far higher than the levels recorded during the brief ceasefire in February and March — underscoring that aid flows are still insufficient.

Ingram added: “The situation is clear: women suffering from malnutrition are giving birth to premature or low-weight babies who die in intensive care units, or survive but suffer from malnutrition or health complications.”

The UNICEF spokesperson added that in October alone, 8,300 pregnant and breastfeeding women were admitted for treatment for acute malnutrition, “in a place where there was no discernible malnutrition among this group before October 2023”.

The spokesperson expressed regret over the obstacles imposed by Israeli authorities preventing the entry of some essential medical supplies into Gaza, and called for opening the Rafah crossing to humanitarian aid.

@E.Y.M