Gradual collapse of Health Sector in Kobani due to siege

Kobani has been witnessing worsening humanitarian and medical conditions since 20 January, when factions affiliated with the Syrian Interim Government imposed the siege, directly impacting the lives of more than 600,000 civilians in the city and surrounding areas.

Gradual Collapse of the Health Sector

The medical sector in Kobani is facing an unprecedented crisis, with the central laboratory at risk of going out of service due to the depletion of essential materials and supplies. This threatens to halt disease diagnosis and the monitoring of chronic conditions, further aggravating the overall health situation.

Hospitals and health centers are operating at minimal capacity amid a sharp shortage of medicines, particularly those for chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension, in addition to a severe lack of emergency drugs. Hospital administrations have been forced to limit surgical operations to minor cases only, due to shortages of anesthetics and surgical supplies, placing the lives of patients requiring urgent interventions at risk.

Severe Shortage of Infant Formula and Medicines

Infant formula is nearly unavailable in markets and pharmacies, endangering the lives of hundreds of infants amid clear malnutrition and the absence of suitable alternatives. Doctors fear rising rates of malnutrition and disease, especially among children and the elderly, if the siege continues and supplies remain blocked.

Pharmacies are also suffering from the depletion of many essential medications, forcing patients to reduce their doses or discontinue treatment altogether, raising the risk of serious health complications in the coming period.

Paralysis of Supplies and Services

All roads leading to the city are completely closed, with food, medical supplies, and fuel barred from entry. This has led to a major shortage of heating materials, compounding residents’ suffering, particularly in displacement shelters.

Electricity and water services have also been affected due to fuel shortages, further complicating daily life and exacerbating health risks in an environment that already lacks the minimum requirements for stability. 

A-H 

ANHA