Traditional stone stove (Archives)
Photo: Elad Gershgoren
Gaza: Fuel shortage leads to increase in burn incidents
Physicians for Human Rights reports Strip's residents resort to primus, stone stoves as alternative method of heating due to increasing fuel deficit; but old fashion methods claim victims
The shortage of fuel in the Gaza Strip has prompted locals to start using old fashioned heating devices, such as the primus and stone stoves as an alternative for heating their homes.
As a result, the Palestinians have reported a sharp increase in burn injuries. According to a Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) report, 16 Palestinians were hospitalized after burning themselves on such stoves. Three people, added the report, have died.
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Last week, he added, 15 patients were hospitalized, and 12 are in need of lifesaving treatments. The unit's dire condition has the hospital referring patients in need of extreme medical measures to Israeli hospitals.
"We find it difficult to treat people because of the shortage in medical supplies and fuel, and also because of the power outs that happen every day, sometimes every hour."
In the past week the PHR was approached by four families whose children suffered intermediate to severe burns and have been referred to Israel for emergency treatment. Nevertheless, their transfer is being delayed.
"In many cases, the need to obtain certain permit hinders life saving efforts and compromises the chances of recovery," said the group.
"These delays symbolize, perhaps more than anything else the fact that the Gaza blockade is a form of collective punishment which hurts children – the most innocent of all."
