The worst-case scenario: famine declared in Gaza amid ongoing conflict
Image: WHO
The Gaza Strip has officially entered the worst-case scenario of famine.
This was confirmed by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), which issued a Food Insecurity and Malnutrition Alert on Monday, describing the crisis as 'a disaster unfolding in front of our eyes.'
The IPC of which the World Health Organization (WHO) is a member has issued one of its gravest alerts yet, confirming that 'famine is now unfolding' in Gaza amid unrelenting conflict, mass displacement, collapsed services, and blocked humanitarian aid.
'Mounting evidence shows that widespread starvation, malnutrition, and disease are driving a rise in hunger-related deaths,' the IPC stated.
'Latest data indicates that Famine thresholds have been reached for food consumption in most of the Gaza Strip and for acute malnutrition in Gaza City.'
Gaza's humanitarian catastrophe has worsened rapidly in recent weeks. According to the IPC, malnutrition has surged in July, with over 20,000 children treated for acute malnutrition between April and mid-July, including more than 3,000 severely malnourished.
At least 16 children under the age of five have died from hunger-related causes since 17 July, hospitals have confirmed.
The IPC defines famine as 'an extreme deprivation of food. Starvation, death, destitution and extremely critical levels of acute malnutrition are or will likely be evident.'
Video Player is loading.
Play Video
Play
Unmute
Current Time
0:00
/
Duration
-:-
Loaded :
0%
Stream Type LIVE
Seek to live, currently behind live
LIVE
Remaining Time
-
0:00
This is a modal window.
Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque
Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps
Reset
restore all settings to the default values Done
Close Modal Dialog
End of dialog window.
Advertisement
Video Player is loading.
Play Video
Play
Unmute
Current Time
0:00
/
Duration
-:-
Loaded :
0%
Stream Type LIVE
Seek to live, currently behind live
LIVE
Remaining Time
-
0:00
This is a modal window.
Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque
Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps
Reset
restore all settings to the default values Done
Close Modal Dialog
End of dialog window.
Next
Stay
Close ✕
The situation is escalating with terrifying speed.
'The worst-case scenario of Famine is currently playing out in the Gaza Strip,' the warning read. 'Conflict and displacement have intensified, and access to food and other essential items and services has plummeted to unprecedented levels.'
The IPC further noted that one in three people in Gaza is now going without food for days at a time, with humanitarian deliveries still critically limited.
Their May 2025 analysis warned that, if the current conditions continued, the entire population would face catastrophic levels of food insecurity by September. That scenario is now a reality. At least half a million people are already estimated to be in IPC Phase 5 – catastrophe, which includes starvation, destitution, and death.
The IPC called for immediate action to be taken
Image: IPC
'There is mounting evidence that widespread starvation, malnutrition and disease are driving a rise in hunger-related deaths,' the IPC stated.
Ross Smith, Director of Emergencies at the UN World Food Programme (WFP), underscored the scale of the crisis.'It's clearly a disaster unfolding in front of our eyes, in front of our television screens. This is not a warning, this is a call to action. This is unlike anything we have seen in this century,' Smith told journalists in Geneva.
Since the resumption of heavy hostilities in March 2025, more than 762,500 new displacements have occurred. The IPC stated that 90% of Gaza's 2.1 million population has now been displaced many repeatedly while safe zones have shrunk to less than 12% of the territory.
While Israel has announced daily humanitarian pauses, the IPC and the wider UN continue to demand unfettered access and a massive scale-up of food, fuel, and medical supplies.
The IPC added that 70% of Gaza's infrastructure has been destroyed amid a conflict that has claimed more than 59,500 lives, according to local health authorities. The alert included an urgent call for five critical actions:
* End hostilities
*Ensure humanitarian access
*Protect civilians, aid workers, and civilian infrastructure
*Restore life-saving and multi-sectoral humanitarian assistance safely and with dignity
*Restore the flow of commercial goods and local production capacities
'Immediate action must be taken to end the hostilities and allow for unimpeded, large-scale, life-saving humanitarian response,' the warning read. This is the only path to stopping further deaths and catastrophic human suffering,' The IPC said.
tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za
Weekend Argus
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Star
a day ago
- The Star
DA raises alarm over rising nosocomial infections in Gauteng hospitals
The Democratic Alliance has sounded the alarm over what it calls a 'growing health crisis' in Gauteng's public hospitals, where an increasing number of patients are reportedly contracting new infections due to unsanitary conditions, overcrowding, and neglect. This revelation follows a DA inquiry in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, which revealed that 7,743 patients acquired nosocomial infections while receiving care in public hospitals in 2024, many of them antibiotic-resistant and potentially life-threatening. DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Health, Jack Bloom, explained that the infections, known as nosocomial infections, occur when patients contract illnesses during their hospital stay that are unrelated to their original condition. He pointed out that Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Hospital (CMJH) had the highest incidence, with 1,473 out of 12,940 patients in 2024 contracting nosocomial infections, an alarming 11%, meaning roughly one in every ten patients was affected. Bloom also stated that nosocomial infections are more prevalent in higher-level hospitals due to the nature of their work, treating more complex cases, longer patient stays, frequent invasive procedures, and increased antibiotic use. He lamented that many of these infections are easily preventable with proper hygiene and stricter infection control measures. 'I am concerned that many patients are getting infections that can be easily avoided with basic improvements like decent cleaning and adequate linen. Imagine the extra pain and suffering of patients who pick up infections that extend their stay in the hospital and can even be life-threatening.' He also emphasised that linen shortages are a contributing factor, forcing patients to reuse bedding and pyjamas for extended periods. 'Surgical patients, in particular, face increased risks due to the hospital's inability to provide clean linen both before and after operations,' said Bloom. However, Bloom stressed that while a certain number of hospital-acquired infections may occur even in well-managed facilities, urgent intervention is needed at the most affected institutions, particularly Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Hospital. He added that this is yet another reason why the hospital's CEO, Gladys Bogoshi, should be swiftly replaced with a capable and experienced professional. In response to the alarming surge in hospital-acquired infections, Gauteng Department of Health spokesperson Motalatale Modiba said several crucial measures have been implemented to curb the spread of nosocomial infections and enhance patient safety across public hospitals. 'A dedicated Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) committee has been established to oversee the implementation of IPC guidelines across healthcare facilities in the province. This committee convenes monthly to identify and address challenges faced by these facilities.' He further stated that Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, assured that an Infection Prevention and Control Assessment Framework (IPCAF) evaluation was conducted to gauge compliance with infection control measures in healthcare facilities. The results were shared with hospital management, and six facilities were flagged as underperforming during the assessment. "Six healthcare facilities were identified as underperforming during the IPCAF assessment, leading to enforcement letters being issued to the CEOs of those hospitals. The IPC committee conducted follow-up visits to non-compliant hospitals, guiding them to develop Quality Improvement Plans and monitor their implementation," said Modiba. Modiba stressed that the department has rolled out a province-wide monitoring system to track and respond to hospital-acquired infections, with teams conducting regular checks to detect outbreaks early. 'IPC practitioners conduct daily, weekly, and monthly surveillance activities to monitor infection trends and identify microorganisms responsible for HAIs,' Modiba said. Modiba added that Antimicrobial Stewardship teams have been established to ensure antibiotics are used correctly and to curb resistance. He also noted that the department is offering refresher training for Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) practitioners. 'This training equips healthcare workers with up-to-date IPC practices, and participants are awarded a certificate of competence upon completion,' he said. Other hospitals with a worrying number of hospital-acquired infections include: Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital (CHBH) - 1796 (6%) out of 31 950 admissions. Edenvale Hospital - 407 (8%) out of 5166 admissions. Kalafong Hospital - 554 (6%) out of 8952 admissions. Tembisa Hospital - 596 (5%) out of 13 116 admissions. Rahima Moosa Hospital - 217 (5%) out of 4320 admissions. Leratong Hospital - 365 (4%) out of 1026 admissions. Pholosong Hospital - 249 (4%) out of 5796 admissions. The Star [email protected]
IOL News
a day ago
- IOL News
DA raises alarm over rising nosocomial infections in Gauteng hospitals
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has raised serious concerns about a health crisis in Gauteng, highlighting a surge in nosocomial (hospital-acquired) infections linked to unsanitary conditions and overcrowding in public hospitals. DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Health, Jack Bloom. The Democratic Alliance has sounded the alarm over what it calls a 'growing health crisis' in Gauteng's public hospitals, where an increasing number of patients are reportedly contracting new infections due to unsanitary conditions, overcrowding, and neglect. This revelation follows a DA inquiry in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, which revealed that 7,743 patients acquired nosocomial infections while receiving care in public hospitals in 2024, many of them antibiotic-resistant and potentially life-threatening. DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Health, Jack Bloom, explained that the infections, known as nosocomial infections, occur when patients contract illnesses during their hospital stay that are unrelated to their original condition. He pointed out that Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Hospital (CMJH) had the highest incidence, with 1,473 out of 12,940 patients in 2024 contracting nosocomial infections, an alarming 11%, meaning roughly one in every ten patients was affected. Bloom also stated that nosocomial infections are more prevalent in higher-level hospitals due to the nature of their work, treating more complex cases, longer patient stays, frequent invasive procedures, and increased antibiotic use. He lamented that many of these infections are easily preventable with proper hygiene and stricter infection control measures. 'I am concerned that many patients are getting infections that can be easily avoided with basic improvements like decent cleaning and adequate linen. Imagine the extra pain and suffering of patients who pick up infections that extend their stay in the hospital and can even be life-threatening.' He also emphasised that linen shortages are a contributing factor, forcing patients to reuse bedding and pyjamas for extended periods. 'Surgical patients, in particular, face increased risks due to the hospital's inability to provide clean linen both before and after operations,' said Bloom. However, Bloom stressed that while a certain number of hospital-acquired infections may occur even in well-managed facilities, urgent intervention is needed at the most affected institutions, particularly Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Hospital. He added that this is yet another reason why the hospital's CEO, Gladys Bogoshi, should be swiftly replaced with a capable and experienced professional. In response to the alarming surge in hospital-acquired infections, Gauteng Department of Health spokesperson Motalatale Modiba said several crucial measures have been implemented to curb the spread of nosocomial infections and enhance patient safety across public hospitals. 'A dedicated Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) committee has been established to oversee the implementation of IPC guidelines across healthcare facilities in the province. This committee convenes monthly to identify and address challenges faced by these facilities.' He further stated that Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, assured that an Infection Prevention and Control Assessment Framework (IPCAF) evaluation was conducted to gauge compliance with infection control measures in healthcare facilities. The results were shared with hospital management, and six facilities were flagged as underperforming during the assessment. "Six healthcare facilities were identified as underperforming during the IPCAF assessment, leading to enforcement letters being issued to the CEOs of those hospitals. The IPC committee conducted follow-up visits to non-compliant hospitals, guiding them to develop Quality Improvement Plans and monitor their implementation," said Modiba. Modiba stressed that the department has rolled out a province-wide monitoring system to track and respond to hospital-acquired infections, with teams conducting regular checks to detect outbreaks early. 'IPC practitioners conduct daily, weekly, and monthly surveillance activities to monitor infection trends and identify microorganisms responsible for HAIs,' Modiba said. Modiba added that Antimicrobial Stewardship teams have been established to ensure antibiotics are used correctly and to curb resistance. He also noted that the department is offering refresher training for Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) practitioners. 'This training equips healthcare workers with up-to-date IPC practices, and participants are awarded a certificate of competence upon completion,' he said. Other hospitals with a worrying number of hospital-acquired infections include: Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital (CHBH) - 1796 (6%) out of 31 950 admissions. Edenvale Hospital - 407 (8%) out of 5166 admissions. Kalafong Hospital - 554 (6%) out of 8952 admissions. Tembisa Hospital - 596 (5%) out of 13 116 admissions. Rahima Moosa Hospital - 217 (5%) out of 4320 admissions. Leratong Hospital - 365 (4%) out of 1026 admissions. Pholosong Hospital - 249 (4%) out of 5796 admissions. The Star
The Citizen
2 days ago
- The Citizen
KZN launches anti-vaping drive as youth addiction sparks health alarm
KZN Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane has sounded the alarm over the increasing use of vaping products among young people, announcing the launch of a province-wide anti-vaping campaign as part of the Department of Health's 2025/26 budget plan. The Witness reports that, delivering her budget speech at the provincial legislature in Pietermaritzburg on Tuesday, Simelane said the campaign seeks to counter widespread myths that vaping is a safer alternative to smoking, especially among schoolchildren. 'We are deeply concerned about the alarming rise in vaping among youth. 'Many are misled into believing that vaping is harmless, when in fact it poses serious and real health risks,' said Simelane. 'This growing trend represents a silent epidemic that threatens the well-being of our youth. 'The problem is worsened by aggressive marketing that falsely portrays vaping as a safer alternative to smoking,' she added. She warned of the health risks associated with vaping, including addiction, lung damage and elevated heart rate — effects often downplayed in marketing that falsely promotes vaping as safe. The campaign will be rolled out through school outreach programmes and community dialogues, aiming to debunk misinformation and equip young people with science-based facts. With her speech, the KZN Department of Health (DoH) has joined other health organisations like the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) in raising the alarm over youth vaping. In May, Cansa criticised the tobacco industry for 'deliberately marketing vaping products to teenagers and younger children'. This year, the organisation marked World No Tobacco Day, which falls on May 31, under the theme 'Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing the Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products' in a bid to highlight how the industry promotes these products to younger audiences by emphasising compact designs and appealing flavours. Cansa's tobacco control programme co-ordinator and social worker, Minenhle Dlamini, refuted claims that vaping is a harmless alternative to smoking, citing mounting evidence of serious health risks. These risks include nicotine addiction, lung damage and the increased likelihood of moving onto traditional tobacco products. 'A new generation of nicotine-dependent individuals is being created with seemingly innocent flavoured vapes and sleek, tech-inspired designs targeting young consumers,' Dlamini said. WHO has warned that vaping is often a gateway to smoking, with e-cigarette use increasing the uptake of conventional cigarettes, particularly among youth, by nearly three times. While stressing that it is too early to fully understand the long-term impact of vaping, WHO said there is compelling evidence that vapes are harmful to health. In some cases, it argued, they pose a greater threat than traditional cigarettes. 'While long-term health effects are not fully known, we do know that they generate toxic substances, some of which are known to cause cancer and some that increase the risk of heart and lung disorders. 'Electronic delivery systems have also been linked to a number of physical injuries, including burns from explosions or malfunctions when the products are substandard or tampered with by users,' it said, adding that accidental exposure of children to vape fluid poses serious risks, as devices may leak or children may swallow the poisonous liquid. Simelane said the health education drive forms part of a wider call for residents to take personal ownership of their health, the overarching theme of her R56.2b budget presentation. Another notable initiative is the introduction of a chaplaincy programme — a first for the province — which will see chaplains deployed to public healthcare facilities to provide emotional and spiritual support to both patients and healthcare workers. 'These chaplains will ease the trauma and stress endured daily in our health facilities by offering comfort and a listening ear,' Simelane said. She acknowledged that while the department has plans to expand healthcare access and strengthen services, these ambitions are heavily constrained by limited funds. She said the department will procure 200 vehicles, including mobile clinics and ambulances, to improve emergency response. A panel of licensed private emergency medical services providers will also be appointed to assist with patient transfers and ease pressure on the state's ageing fleet. The MEC said posts for unemployed medical professionals, such as post-community service doctors, will be advertised soon following commitments from national ministers that funding is available. To address healthcare shortages in rural communities, new clinics are under construction in Nyavini (Ugu), Mpolweni (uMgungundlovu) and Mpaphala (King Cetshwayo). Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel. Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal. Read original story on
