Gaza Faces Polio Outbreak Amid Humanitarian Crisis

Abdel-Rahman Abuel-Jedian, a 10-month-old baby, became Gaza's first confirmed polio case in 25 years. Born during the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, he missed essential vaccinations. Health workers warned of a potential polio outbreak amid the escalating humanitarian crisis. The United Nations has launched a vaccination campaign to control the spread.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Gazacity | Updated: 28-08-2024 09:47 IST | Created: 28-08-2024 09:47 IST
Gaza Faces Polio Outbreak Amid Humanitarian Crisis

The first confirmed polio case in Gaza in 25 years has emerged amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, affecting 10-month-old Abdel-Rahman Abuel-Jedian. Born into the chaos, Abdel-Rahman missed crucial vaccinations.

Health experts have long warned of a polio outbreak in Gaza as the humanitarian crisis worsens. Abdel-Rahman's diagnosis confirmed their fears. "He was energetic but suddenly stopped crawling and moving," said his mother, Nevine, tearfully.

The United Nations has announced a vaccination campaign to contain the outbreak and protect other children. However, ongoing evacuations and military operations complicate efforts, said UNICEF's Ammar Ammar.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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