Gaza City, Gaza Strip – Despite the challenging circumstances, a polio vaccination campaign has successfully reached over 187,000 children under the age of ten in central Gaza. The first phase of the campaign, conducted between September 1-3, exceeded its initial target of 157,000 children, thanks to the dedication of health workers and the resilience of families.
The campaign, led by the Palestinian Ministry of Health, with support from the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and other partners, aims to provide two doses of novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2) to around 640,000 children in Gaza. The second phase of the campaign is set to begin in southern Gaza on September 5, targeting an estimated 340,000 children.
WHO Representative for the occupied Palestinian territory, Dr. Richard Peeperkorn, praised the success of the first phase, saying, “It has been extremely encouraging to see thousands of children being able to access polio vaccines, despite the deplorable conditions they have faced over the last 11 months.”
The campaign’s success is a testament to the coordination among partners and the commitment to protecting the health and well-being of people in Gaza. However, the ongoing conflict and disrupted health systems highlight the need for continued support and cooperation to ensure the success of future phases.
WHO/Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
