Polio Vaccination Campaign in Gaza Targets 640,000 Children Amid Wartime Challenges

The initial stage of a significant polio vaccination campaign in Gaza is nearing completion, with plans to vaccinate 640,000 children under the age of 10. The campaign faced challenges due to wartime conditions, but witnesses reported no major incidents. Currently, nearly 530,000 children have received the first dose, and health experts emphasize the need for 90% coverage to prevent the spread of polio.

Challenging Conditions and Vaccination Progress

The campaign encountered difficulties due to the challenging wartime conditions in Gaza. Despite these obstacles, the vaccination effort has made significant progress, with nearly 530,000 children having received the first dose of the polio vaccine. The success of the campaign relies on the administration of a booster round of vaccinations in a few weeks.

Health Officials' Perspective and Concerns

Health officials expressed concerns about the significant drop in vaccination rates, particularly among babies in Gaza, which were reported to be around 99% in 2022. The deteriorating infrastructure and waste management systems, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict, further compound the risks for unvaccinated children. Health experts emphasize the importance of achieving a 90% vaccination coverage to prevent the spread of polio.