Gazans get aid from Israel to stop spread of H1N1

Calcutta News.Net
Saturday 12th December, 2009

Following the recent outbreak of the H1N1 flu virus (formerly known as swine flu) in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli government has stepped in to help prevent the spreading of the virus.

Israel's Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories and the Gaza District Coordination and Liaison Office are working with the Palestinian Civil Committee in Gaza, to combat the virus.

The efforts include facilitating the entry of Palestinians into Israel territory for medical treatment. On Monday, an ill Palestinian was examined in Israel diagnosed to have the deadly flu virus. In addition to that, four other Palestinians showing signs of the disease also crossed into Israel to receive treatment.

The Gaza DCL says it is in continuous contact with health officials from the Palestinian Civil Committee in Gaza, and is receiving up-to-date assessments. Meetings are being held frequently to review the situation.

In addition to the evacuation of affected Palestinians to Israeli hospitals, approximately 10,000 vaccinations against H1N1 have been transferred to the Gaza Strip via Israel, and COGAT says it remains prepared to receive further requests.

Since the start of 2009, approximately 8,000 Gazan patients and their families have entered Israel for medical reasons.

The commander of the Gaza DCL, Col. Moshe Levi, said, "The Gaza DCL is making great efforts on all levels and through all channels to assist the non-combatant Palestinian population from the Gaza Strip, with an emphasis on the field of health. This is part of our overall humanitarian effort vis-a-vis the Gaza Strip."

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