Eastern Syria is currently grappling with a worsening health crisis due to the spread of the rotavirus, which has triggered a wave of acute gastroenteritis cases. This virus is among the most widespread globally and poses a threat to both children and adults. The situation presents a major daily challenge for hospitals, further straining an already resource-deprived healthcare system.
At Al-Furat Hospital in Deir Ezzor, medical staff have seen a marked rise in cases. Dr. Qais Al-Taha told +963: “We have observed a significant increase in cases since the beginning of last month, receiving nearly thirty cases a day, most of them children under five. Many require urgent medical care due to severe dehydration.”
Hasnaa Al-Ahmad, a mother of two from Hasakah, recounted her experience with her son who was infected by the virus. She told +963 “Symptoms started appearing three days ago, severe diarrhea and constant vomiting. I tried treating my son at home, but his condition quickly worsened, so I decided to bring him to the hospital.”
She added: “I’m really scared for my child; many children are in critical condition. Parents need to be cautious when any symptoms appear in their children, especially this season. Prevention is very important, and everyone should be aware of this virus.”
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Meanwhile, Bashar Al-Obeid, a resident of Deir Ezzor, expressed sorrow over losing his son due to complications from the virus: “My four-year-old son passed away a few days ago because I neglected his symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and high fever.”
He added to +963: “After I realized he had the virus, I did everything I could, but the hospital was overcrowded, beds were full, and medications were lacking. I feel powerless, how can this be happening? We need better solutions to confront these outbreaks.”
Dr. Ali Mustafa, medical supervisor at Al-Raja Hospital in Hasakah, explained: “Rotavirus belongs to the family of viral pathogens. It’s a seasonal virus that typically spreads more in the early summer months and causes vomiting and diarrhea.”
He added to +963: “It used to be a fatal virus, but since 2006, new vaccines have shown effectiveness. Children between six months and two years, preterm infants, and the elderly are most at risk of serious symptoms.”
Dr. Mashari Al-Hazoum, director of Hajin General Hospital in Deir Ezzor, stated that rotavirus causes acute intestinal inflammation, especially in children, and presents with symptoms like severe diarrhea, vomiting, and fever, which can lead to dehydration, a particularly dangerous condition for children.
He told +963: “We are working hard to provide necessary medical care to patients, but we face major challenges, primarily a shortage of IV fluids, medications, and medical personnel.”
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Hazoum added: “I advise families to bring their children to the hospital as soon as any symptoms appear and not to try giving them medications or painkillers at home, as that could worsen the condition. Parents must also improve sanitation and ensure clean water at home; it’s an essential part of the solution.”
In conclusion, Asaad Al-Sultan, health official in rural Deir Ezzor, said: “We are facing a serious crisis due to a shortage of vaccines and basic medical supplies. Rotavirus is spreading rapidly among children, and we need urgent support from international organizations to confront this wave. We affirm that efforts are ongoing to provide the necessary treatment and support.”
The health crisis in eastern Syria continues amid the rotavirus outbreak, demanding an urgent response and coordinated efforts to protect children’s health and the wider community.
The rotavirus emergency highlights the urgent need to strengthen the healthcare system and supply the resources required to manage epidemics. With the number of cases rising, hope remains pinned on international support and humanitarian aid to help affected populations. Protecting the health of children and their families must be a top priority to secure a better future for the region.
