What it’s about
In a remarkable effort coordinated by the Israel Defense Forces and other relevant bodies, a polio vaccination campaign in recent weeks concluded successfully in Gaza. Thanks to strategic pauses in the regional situation, over 1.1 million vaccine doses were administered, achieving a vaccination rate exceeding 90% among children.
Why it matters
This vaccination campaign illustrates Israel’s commitment to humanitarian assistance, even amidst complex regional challenges. By working closely with organizations such as the World Health Organization and UNICEF, Israel facilitated crucial medical care, underscoring its dedication to the health of all individuals.
The details
The Coordinator of Government Affairs in the Territories (COGAT) successfully oversaw the delivery of vaccines across Gaza: 211,170 children in the north, 379,361 in central Gaza, and 517,070 in the south. This monumental effort was made possible through coordinated humanitarian pauses and COGAT’s facilitation role, which included logistics for vaccine storage and distribution.
Humanitarian collaboration
In tandem with international champions like WHO and UNICEF, logistical aid was crucial to ensure effective delivery of services. The presence of polio specialists and medical equipment affirmed the effective collaboration crossing borders, all with the critical target of addressing a pressing health emergency.
Continued Commitment
The Defense Ministry through COGAT pledges continuous support under international law directives, emphasizing its obligation to the safety and health of civilians, ensuring such health crises are timely managed and remedied.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.