Palestinian health authorities and United Nations agencies have launched a vaccination drive against polio in the Gaza Strip in an effort to prevent an outbreak in the territory, which has been heavily affected by Israeli bombardment. The campaign aims to inoculate about 640,000 children, starting in central Gaza before moving to the northern and southern parts of the Strip.
The World Health Organization has reported that Israel has agreed to limited pauses in its military operations to facilitate the vaccination campaign. Although initial reports of Israeli strikes were received, the extent of casualties was not immediately known. Hospitals in Deir el-Balah and Nuseirat have confirmed that the campaign has begun.
Gaza recently reported its first polio case in 25 years, highlighting the urgent need for vaccination. The disease can cause paralysis and even be fatal, but it is preventable through vaccination. In the midst of ongoing conflict and destroyed infrastructure, the vaccination campaign faces numerous challenges.
Many residents in Gaza have been displaced and are living in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, increasing the risk of disease outbreaks. Health officials have warned about the potential for widespread illness due to the lack of access to clean water and proper sanitation. The importance of the vaccination campaign cannot be understated in preventing a public health crisis in Gaza.
The vaccination drive is crucial in ensuring the health and safety of children in Gaza, who have already endured months of conflict and devastation. The campaign will be ongoing through September 9, with efforts to reach as many children as possible to prevent the spread of polio in the territory.
Source
Photo credit www.aljazeera.com