What it is about
Evidence of poliovirus type 2 was found in sewage samples in the Gaza Strip, as reported by the Health Ministry. These findings were confirmed by an Israeli laboratory approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), highlighting a critical public health concern in the region.
Why it matters
Polio is a highly infectious disease that primarily affects young children, potentially leading to severe neurological impairments including spinal and respiratory paralysis, and even death. The detection of poliovirus amidst the conflict between Israel and Hamas exacerbates the already dire public health conditions in Gaza.
The impact of conflict
The war initiated by Hamas’s October 7 attack has resulted in widespread destruction and the displacement of the majority of Gaza’s population. This upheaval has disrupted routine immunization programs, putting children at increased risk of contracting polio and other communicable diseases.
Deteriorating health conditions
According to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), inadequate sanitation facilities, lack of clean water, accumulations of garbage, and disruption in healthcare services are accelerating the spread of diseases, including acute hepatitis and various forms of diarrhea.
Regional response and aid
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) earlier facilitated the delivery of hundreds of thousands of polio, tuberculosis, rotavirus, and MMR vaccines to Gaza, demonstrating Israel’s commitment to mitigating public health crises in the area, despite the conflict conditions.
Israeli health measures
Israeli health authorities are actively monitoring and evaluating necessary steps to prevent the risk of polio and other diseases within Israel. This prompted Prof. Nadav Davidovitch, director of the School of Public Health at Ben Gurion University, to emphasize the need for regional cooperation to ensure widespread vaccination and public health security for all affected, including Israeli soldiers and civilians, hostages, and Gazan newborns.
Long-term health goals
The international community, led by WHO’s 1988 resolution, continues to strive for the worldwide eradication of polio. Persistent efforts and regional collaboration are essential in addressing the urgent healthcare needs and improving the overall wellbeing of people in Gaza, emphasizing that sustained intervention and support are crucial in these challenging times.
Closing thoughts
The WHO and UNRWA remain committed to tackling this health crisis, emphasizing the necessity for both immediate and long-term healthcare solutions. Despite the conflict, collaborative efforts involving international organizations and regional stakeholders are essential in preventing the re-emergence of polio and other critical health threats.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.