In a critical health initiative, the United Nations is set to launch a polio vaccination campaign in the Gaza Strip, aiming to protect 640,000 children. This effort comes in the wake of the first confirmed polio case in the region in 25 years, highlighting the urgent need for preventive measures.
The campaign faces significant obstacles due to the ongoing conflict between Israeli forces and Palestinian militants. Yousef Abu Al-Reesh, Gaza's deputy health minister, emphasized that only a comprehensive ceasefire could ensure widespread coverage. He stated, "If the international community truly wants this campaign to succeed, it should call for a ceasefire, knowing that this virus does not stop, and can reach anywhere."
The World Health Organization (WHO) stresses the importance of vaccinating at least 90% of children twice, with a four-week interval between doses, for the campaign to be effective. This target presents a formidable challenge in Gaza, where nearly 11 months of conflict have resulted in widespread destruction and displacement of the population.
The Gaza Strip, one of the world's most densely populated areas, has been grappling with severe humanitarian issues. The territory, approximately 365 square kilometers in size, has been under a blockade by Israel and Egypt since 2007, exacerbating its economic and health challenges. With about 43% of its population under 14 years old, the need for comprehensive healthcare measures is critical.
Amidst preparations for the vaccination drive, violence continues to impact civilian lives. Palestinian health authorities reported at least 48 fatalities from Israeli strikes on August 31, 2024. In Nuseirat, one of Gaza's eight historic refugee camps, 19 people, including nine from a single family, were reportedly killed in separate strikes.
The conflict, which escalated on October 7, 2023, following a Hamas attack on Israel, has resulted in over 40,600 Palestinian casualties, according to local health ministry figures. The entire Gaza population of 2.3 million faces displacement and a severe hunger crisis.
As vaccination teams ready themselves, the UN plans to rely on daily eight-hour pauses in specific areas to carry out the campaign. However, clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinian militants in central and southern Gaza continue to pose significant risks to both civilians and healthcare workers.
The polio vaccination effort in Gaza is part of a global initiative that has reduced polio cases worldwide by 99% since 1988. The reemergence of the virus in the region underscores the importance of maintaining vaccination programs, even in conflict zones.
"This campaign is crucial not only for the children of Gaza but for global polio eradication efforts. We urge all parties to ensure safe access for vaccination teams."
As the international community watches closely, the success of this vaccination campaign could have far-reaching implications for both public health and humanitarian efforts in conflict-affected regions.