What it’s about
The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced the successful completion of the first phase of a large-scale polio vaccination campaign in Gaza. Nearly 200,000 children received their initial dose of the vaccine, following the territory’s first confirmed polio case in 25 years.
Why it matters
This crucial vaccination drive, initiated amid humanitarian pauses in ongoing hostilities, aims to immunize over 640,000 children in a region devastated by nearly 11 months of conflict. Successful immunization efforts not only safeguard children within Gaza but also prevent the spread of this crippling disease to neighboring regions, including Israel.
Details
Between September 1 and 3, more than 187,000 children under the age of 10 in central Gaza were vaccinated. The campaign’s success was attributed to the unwavering dedication of families, health workers, and vaccinators, who worked under dire conditions. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed gratitude via social media.
The WHO also called for continued respect for humanitarian pauses and urged a ceasefire to ensure the smooth continuation of health initiatives. Due to population movements and expanded coverage, the actual need for vaccinations exceeded initial estimates.
Logistics and Strategy
Over 500 teams comprising around 2,200 health and community workers participated in the campaign, covering 143 fixed sites and multiple mobile units visiting remote areas. Vaccinations continue at key health facilities to ensure no child is missed.
Next Steps
The campaign will move to southern Gaza, targeting 340,000 children over the next four days, followed by efforts in northern Gaza aimed at 150,000 children between September 9 and 11.
A subsequent campaign to administer the second dose of the polio vaccine is scheduled to begin in roughly four weeks to ensure comprehensive coverage. WHO emphasizes that achieving at least 90% vaccine coverage is essential to halt polio’s spread within Gaza and beyond.
Israeli Perspective
Such vaccination initiatives are crucial not only for the immediate health of children in Gaza but also to prevent potential cross-border health risks. Continued and coordinated health efforts contribute to regional stability and public health security, emphasizing the broader importance of collaborative humanitarian initiatives.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.