The United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) has announced the extension of a mass polio vaccination campaign in Gaza, set to begin this weekend and run for five days. The move comes after wastewater samples detected poliovirus, putting children under 10 years old at risk.
According to WHO, over 591,000 children will receive the vaccine to protect them from the highly infectious disease. The agency warned that poor sanitation conditions in Gaza, including overcrowding in shelters and damaged water and sewer networks, have created ideal conditions for further spread of poliovirus.
The campaign, led by the Palestinian Ministry of Health with support from WHO, UNICEF, and other partners, aims to ensure children’s safety. Vaccination doses are safe and can be repeated as needed, providing extra protection. An additional round of shots is planned for April.
Meanwhile, efforts to increase water supplies in Gaza continue. Over 1,780 operational water points have been established, supporting water trucking activities. Aid teams are also working to ensure vulnerable groups, including those with disabilities, access safe and dignified aid distribution services.
In related news, the Israeli occupation of the West Bank continues to cause further destruction and displacement for Palestinian families, with reports of demolished homes in Tulkarm refugee camp.
Source: https://news.un.org/en/story/2025/02/1160271