UN and Palestinian Health Authorities Collaborate on Massive Polio Vaccination Drive

The United Nations, in partnership with Palestinian health officials, has commenced a significant vaccination campaign targeting 640,000 children in Gaza. The campaign, launched amidst an ongoing conflict, aims to curb the spread of type 2 polio virus, following the first case in 25 years. Israel and Hamas have agreed to temporary ceasefires to facilitate the vaccination effort.

The United Nations, alongside Palestinian health officials, initiated a large-scale polio vaccination campaign for 640,000 children in Gaza on Sunday. This effort gained momentum as Israel and Hamas concurred on temporary ceasefires. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently confirmed Gaza's first type 2 polio virus case in 25 years, prompting immediate action.

The vaccination drive launched in central Gaza will continue to expand in the days ahead, with eight-hour fighting suspensions over at least three consecutive days. WHO predicts the need for a fourth-day extension to ensure the first round of vaccinations is completed within two weeks.

On the campaign's first day, 72,611 children received vaccines. Medical staff marked vaccinated children with pen marks on their fingers at a UN-run clinic in Deir Al-Balah, where around one million people are sheltering. Gaza mother Afnan Al-Muqayyad emphasized polio as one of many health concerns among deteriorating conditions.

UNRWA's communications director Juliette Touma highlighted the complexity of the campaign and pressed for ceasefire adherence to facilitate vaccination of children, emphasizing the urgency. Israeli and Hamas cooperation remains critical, with WHO officials stressing 90% of children must be vaccinated twice within four weeks for success.

Meanwhile, the conflict persisted with Israeli forces clashing with Hamas militants, as efforts to curb the polio virus continue against a backdrop of destruction and ongoing violence. The necessity for comprehensive child vaccination remains paramount to prevent further spread of the disease.

(With inputs from agencies.)