In a heartfelt effort to save vulnerable lives, twenty-eight premature babies were evacuated from Al-Shifa Hospital in northern Gaza to Egypt on Monday. The convoy of ambulances, coordinated by Egyptian authorities, marks a critical move amidst the ongoing conflict that has severely impacted medical services in the region.
Dr. Rick Brennan of the World Health Organization highlighted the dire conditions of the newborns, stating, \"Each of them has serious infections and quite a few of them have a low body temperature and so they really do need detailed specialist care.\" This urgent need for specialized medical attention underscores the fragile state of healthcare in Gaza.
Al-Shifa Hospital, Gaza's largest medical facility, has been struggling to operate due to a lack of fuel following retaliatory ground and air attacks on Gaza City. As a result, medical services have collapsed, forcing the evacuation of the premature infants to Al-Hilal Hospital in southern Gaza before their transfer to Egypt for further treatment.
Mohamed Salama, head of the Neonatal Unit, provided insights into the challenges faced in caring for these tiny patients. The coordinated evacuation effort aims to provide the necessary medical support to ensure the survival and well-being of these newborns during these tumultuous times.
This mission not only highlights the humanitarian efforts underway but also emphasizes the critical need for sustained support and resources to healthcare facilities in conflict-affected areas.
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Premature babies evacuated from Gaza's main hospital to Egypt
cgtn.com