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Concerns grow in Gaza over new coronavirus wave

There are increasing warnings that a new coronavirus wave will reach the Gaza Strip amid concerns over a psychological crisis plaguing health workers due to Israeli restrictions.
A Palestinian medical worker prepares a dose of Russia's Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine at a mosque in Khan Yunis, Gaza Strip, July 6, 2021.

The Ministry of Health in the Gaza Strip is increasing its warnings of a new coronavirus wave in the coastal enclave, as nurses and doctors voice concerns over the arrival of the Delta variant that could lead to a wider spread of cases, thus imposing further psychological pressure on doctors amid the fragile health system due to the ongoing Israeli siege since 2007.

Medhat Abbas, director of primary care at the Ministry of Health in Gaza, told Al-Monitor that his ministry expects a strong third coronavirus wave in Gaza, saying, “If a Delta variant wave kicks in across the Gaza Strip, it will be harsh given the lack of safety measures and the severe overcrowding, which are set to lead to the rapid spread of the virus.”

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