The Eastern Mediterranean region is facing a dire health situation, with multiple countries reporting escalating health emergencies. In Yemen, a recent escalation that began on August 6 has resulted in mass casualties across several governorates. The Ministry of Health and Population recorded 3,672 casualties, including 674 deaths and 2,998 injuries, between August 6 and September 18. This includes 680 casualties recorded between September 13 and 18.
The situation in Yemen has led to a significant influx of internally displaced persons, with over 130,000 people displaced across eight governorates due to hostilities. Additionally, the escalation has driven cross-border displacement, with 3,500 people arriving in Obock, Djibouti. The occupied Palestinian territory (oPt) is also facing health challenges, with more than half of its health facilities in Gaza remaining partially functional. However, 47% of essential medicines are out of stock, further exacerbating the situation.
Lebanon is also dealing with the aftermath of conflict, with 334,353 people remaining internally displaced as of August 26. Three hospitals and 22 primary health care centers remain closed, putting additional pressure on the already strained health system. In Sudan, conflict, displacement, and disease outbreaks continue to affect the health system, with funding cuts impacting 335 health facilities across 13 states. This has resulted in 153 facilities being suspended and 182 operating at reduced capacity.
Disease outbreaks remain a significant concern in the region, with cholera reported in Sudan. As of August 31, 2,730 cases and 246 deaths have been reported. Dengue transmission is also widespread, affecting 15 states. However, there are signs of decline in several diseases, including acute watery diarrhea, suspected measles, dengue, and Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) in Afghanistan.
In Somalia, measles, diphtheria, and dengue remain active but have declined in recent reporting weeks. In Iraq, CCHF cases have declined by 44% compared to July, but confirmed measles cases have increased from 29 to 42. The region's health concerns are further complicated by food insecurity and malnutrition, particularly in Somalia, Yemen, and Sudan.
Malnutrition is a significant issue, with an estimated 1.88 million children under five acutely malnourished in Somalia, including 493,000 with severe acute malnutrition. In Yemen, an estimated 2.2 million children are acutely malnourished, including 520,000 with severe acute malnutrition. Population movements have increased demand for health services, with Afghanistan recording 109,305 returnees in August, bringing the total since January to 1,186,755.
The health situation in the Eastern Mediterranean region remains critical, with multiple countries facing significant health challenges. The ongoing conflict, displacement, and disease outbreaks have stretched health systems to the limit, highlighting the need for sustained support and resources to address these pressing health concerns.
Key points
- Mass casualties and displacement reported in Yemen, with 3,672 casualties recorded between August 6 and September 18.
- Disease outbreaks, including cholera and dengue, remain a significant concern in the region, particularly in Sudan and Somalia.
- Food insecurity and malnutrition are major health concerns, with an estimated 1.88 million children under five acutely malnourished in Somalia and 2.2 million in Yemen.
