Harsh winter conditions in northwest Syria increase vulnerability of internally displaced people. Syria’s health challenges sharply worsen amid harsh winter Humanitarian aid
Harsh winter conditions in northwest Syria have worsened an already dire health situation, making displaced people particularly vulnerable, the World Health Organization (WHO)-led Health Cluster coalition said on Friday.
Respiratory illnesses are rising sharply in the region due to inadequate heating, overcrowded camps and damaged infrastructure, the coalition said.
“Since the start of winter, we have seen a significant increase in influenza and acute respiratory infections, leading to overcrowding in clinics and hospitals,” said the Health Cluster. The organization coordinates the efforts of more than 900 partners around the world in humanitarian crises, providing expertise, training and technical guidance to ensure an effective response and save lives in affected areas.
Winter adds challenges
Harsh winter conditions in northwest Syria are increasing health vulnerabilities, particularly among internally displaced people, who often live in temporary shelters and overcrowded camps with inadequate insulation and heating. Experts warn of a significant increase in risks, including hypothermia, as temperatures drop.
To address these challenges, WHO and its partners have focused on targeted interventions, including providing shelter with adequate insulation, access to heating and essential medical supplies.
Humanitarian Aid
At the same time, the UN and partners have stepped up efforts to improve access to health care for people in the region. By mid-week, 750 trucks carrying humanitarian supplies from seven UN agencies, including WHO and UNICEF, had crossed the border into northwest Syria. The supplies include life-saving medicines, food and other humanitarian aid.
WHO has supported 37 health facilities and 14 health partners with 510 trauma kits, enabling them to treat 90,000 people.
Mine attacks and funding shortfalls
Despite these efforts, the health crisis in northwest Syria remains dire. Recent landmine attacks in Idlib, Aleppo and Hama have resulted in deaths and injuries, putting additional strain on health facilities. On December 24, three explosions in Idlib killed a man and wounded several civilians, including a child, in Aleppo.
Lack of funding remains another major challenge. The Health Cluster will need $22 million over the next three months to maintain essential health services for 450,000 people. The severe underfunding has put 140 health facilities, including general and specialist hospitals, primary health care centres and dialysis units, at risk.