Yahya, Reem, and Esraa three children are still suffering from the spectrum of Galactosemia. They live in Beit Hanoun, northern of Gaza Strip and recently they are sharing the last bottle of their therapeutic milk.
Galactomine is therapeutic milk disbursed by Rantisi Specialist Hospital to these unfortunate children. Their mother, Ms. Fayza Abu Shabab says: “the unavailability of therapeutic Gelactomin milk for my children increased their suffering, especially since they have to adhere to a strict diet of fish, meat, and fruits, which is beyond our financial capacity”. Galactosemia is a rare metabolic condition that prevents babies from digesting a milk sugar called galactose and turning it into energy. The disorder can cause many problems for newborns and can be life-threatening if left untreated. Causing abdominal bloating, accompanied by severe diarrhea, loss of weight
Dr. Ragheb Warsha Agha, head of Gastroenterology department at Rantissi Hospital, said ” depletion of these types of therapeutic milk constitutes a real danger to the lives of dozens of children suffering from a chronic genetic disease “, he added ” “Glactomine,” is available in limited quantities even in the private market. where the box costs more than 100$.
Dr. Agha said that the children’s conditions worsen when they are younger than six months, children at this age can not eat fish or meat, so the therapeutic milk is a must or he will be forced to enter the hospital and stay there for a long time.
Dr. Zikri Abu Qamer, Director of the central warehouses of drugs in the ministry of health, said ” 11 types of therapeutic milk were received and that shall cover the shortage temporarily for up to two months.