Polio vaccinations start in Gaza while fighting is temporarily stopped

The Gaza Strip, a region long marred by conflict and humanitarian crises, has recently embarked on a critical polio vaccination campaign amidst a partial pause in fighting. This initiative is a response to the re-emergence of the poliovirus in the area after a 25-year absence, a situation that highlights the dire state of Gaza's healthcare system. The campaign aims to vaccinate approximately 640,000 children under the age of ten to prevent a potential outbreak of the virus, which poses a significant threat to public health in the region.

Polio, a highly infectious disease caused by the poliovirus, can lead to paralysis and even death. It spreads primarily through contact with fecal matter, especially in unsanitary conditions, which are prevalent in Gaza due to the ongoing conflict. The virus was detected in environmental samples in Gaza in July 2024, raising alarms among health officials. The detection followed a significant drop in routine immunization coverage, exacerbated by the conflict that began in October 2023.

The World Health Organization (WHO), alongside UNICEF and the Palestinian Ministry of Health, has spearheaded the vaccination campaign. The initiative involves administering two drops of the novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2) to each child, with a second dose planned four weeks after the first.

Challenges and Humanitarian Efforts

The vaccination campaign faces numerous challenges, primarily due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. While Israel has allowed limited humanitarian corridors to facilitate the vaccination process, reports of a comprehensive ceasefire are inaccurate. Instead, designated safe zones have been established for a few hours each day to administer the vaccines.

The campaign's success hinges on reaching at least 95% vaccination coverage to prevent the spread of polio. However, the deteriorating infrastructure, displacement of families, and ongoing hostilities pose significant obstacles. Health officials have expressed concerns about the campaign's ability to reach the necessary coverage levels due to these challenges.

Community Response and International Involvement

Despite the risks, Gazan families are eager to vaccinate their children. The campaign has seen long queues at vaccination sites, as parents prioritize their children's health amidst the chaos. The international community, including the United Nations, has called for a lasting ceasefire to ensure the safety and well-being of Gaza's children. UN officials have emphasized that peace is the ultimate solution to safeguarding public health in the region.

The WHO and UNICEF have also been working to strengthen poliovirus surveillance and routine immunization efforts in Gaza. This includes supporting health workers and community outreach teams to reach children who cannot access health facilities. Over 2,700 health workers are involved in the campaign, which is being conducted in stages across different areas of Gaza.

The Path Forward

The polio vaccination campaign in Gaza is a crucial step in preventing a potential public health crisis. However, the ongoing conflict and humanitarian challenges underscore the need for a comprehensive and lasting solution. The international community must continue to support efforts to improve healthcare access and infrastructure in Gaza, while advocating for peace and stability in the region.

In a statement to the media, Sam Rose, a spokesperson for UNRWA, highlighted the urgency of the campaign: "This is a race against time to prevent the spread of polio in Gaza and beyond. We need all parties to respect the temporary pauses in fighting to ensure the safety of health workers and families".

UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric also addressed concerns about the vaccine's safety, stating, "The safest and most effective means to protect children from the poliovirus is through vaccination. This vaccine is safe, effective, and provides excellent protection".

The polio vaccination campaign in Gaza is a testament to the resilience and determination of health workers and families in the face of adversity. While the partial pause in fighting offers a glimmer of hope, a lasting ceasefire remains essential to achieving the campaign's goals and ensuring the health and safety of Gaza's children.