In brief
The World Health Organization (WHO) has commenced the final phase of a two-stage polio vaccination campaign in north Gaza, following the resumption of immunisations after intensified conflict and humanitarian access challenges. This second phase, initially delayed due to severe Israeli bombardments and mass displacement of people, comes in response to the first polio case recorded in Gaza in 25 years, which resulted in a child's paralysis.
Efforts are now focused on reaching 119,000 children under ten in towns like Jabalia and Beit Hanoun, although access constraints mean that around 15,000 kids may miss out on this vital vaccine. The ongoing humanitarian crisis has been described by 15 UN and aid organizations as “apocalyptic,” prompting a temporary ceasefire to facilitate vaccination activities in Gaza City. During the first phase of the campaign, which ran from early September, over 559,000 children were vaccinated, albeit with significant barriers to a more comprehensive rollout anticipated during this new phase.Medical experts warn that any delays in administering the vaccine could compromise the fight against polio, a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease. Currently, the UN estimates dire humanitarian conditions persist in north Gaza, with severe shortages of food, water, and medical resources affecting approximately 100,000 residents. Thousands have been displaced amidst the violence, leading to a catastrophic situation now under international scrutiny.As the US government calls for increased humanitarian aid into Gaza, the conflict initiated by a Hamas attack on Israel in October has escalated dramatically, with allegations of significant civilian casualties on both sides. The trajectory of the vaccination campaign in the region remains pivotal as military action continues to affect the population's health and well-being.
