June 2, 2018
After the province of Deir Ezzor was taken out of ISIS control, two main forces took control of the province: The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) which controls the north of the Euphrates River and the Syrian government forces which controls the south of the Euphrates River.
This report sheds light on the health situation in Deir Ezzor province, after the expulsion of ISIS.
- Health situation:
- The province suffers from the spread of epidemics such as hepatitis and leishmaniasis, in addition to uncommon skin diseases as a result of chemicals that are improperly used to sterilize water. Epidemics as well as skin diseases are caused by:
- Pollution of drinking water after ISIS had transferred generators of water refineries to other areas and had destroyed many of them when they withdrew from the province. In addition, ISIS had prevented relief organizations from delivering sterilization materials necessary for water purification.
- The Euphrates River has been also polluted, as its water mixed with sewage water, according to a UNICEF report. So far, the Syrian government has not been able to restart drinking water plants.
- People in Deir Ezzor suffers from Night blindness, as a result of the lack of lighting at night as well as scarcity of food due to siege imposed on the province.
- There are an estimated 33 health centers in SDF-held areas, providing first aid and vaccines. In the Syrian government-held areas, there is no approximate number of health centers; however, there are two official hospitals operating in the province; These two are located within the city and their capacity is not enough to serve large numbers of patients.
- Priorities in the health sector:
- Restart the water pumps on the Euphrates River and purify and sterilize the river’s water to become safe for human consumption.
- Provide vaccines for treatment and control of epidemics.
- Provide health facilities and centers that contain the necessary medical and health supplies, especially urgent medications and medicines for chronic diseases, as well as vaccines against snakes and scorpions.