Efforts to distribute polio vaccines in Gaza amidst conflict

In a major public health boost, Gaza has received a shipment of polio vaccines aimed at protecting more than 640,000 children from the virus, marking the first such effort in 25 years due to a recently reported case. The United Nations, along with Israeli and Gaza health officials, are coordinating this critical initiative.

The campaign, led by UNICEF and supported by the World Health Organization and UNRWA, includes the distribution of 1.2 million doses of polio vaccine. The Ministry of Health in Gaza has confirmed the arrival of the vaccines and is preparing for a large-scale vaccination campaign targeting children under 10 years old.

The distribution process faces significant challenges due to the ongoing hostilities in the region, which have lasted for almost a year. These conditions have severely complicated logistics and access to essential services, making the timely and effective distribution of vaccines an urgent concern for all parties involved.

This vaccination campaign highlights the complex interaction between health and conflict in the region, highlighting the urgent need for ceasefires and cooperation to address public health emergencies during war.

By Robert Collins

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