The Gaza Strip faces a new challenge with its first case of polio in 25 years, posing obstacles to health workers and aid agencies trying to launch a mass vaccination effort in the conflict-ridden territory. Despite ongoing Israeli airstrikes and restrictions on aid, U.N. agencies are gearing up for an extensive vaccination campaign to protect the 640,000 children in Gaza.
The detection of polio in an unvaccinated baby has raised concerns, as poliovirus spreads through sewage and contaminated water, prevalent issues in Gaza due to the conflict. The U.N. agencies are set to begin vaccinations on August 31, following the confirmatory tests in Jordan.
The comprehensive plan involves 2,700 health workers in 708 teams, overseen by the WHO, and UNICEF managing the cold supply chain for vaccines. Equipment has arrived in Israel and is set to enter Gaza soon. However, the challenging conditions and infrastructure limitations in Gaza continue to complicate the delivery and administration of vaccines.
Key Points:
- First case of polio in Gaza in 25 years poses challenges for mass vaccination.
- U.N. agencies gearing up to vaccinate 640,000 children.
- Ongoing conflict and infrastructure issues complicate vaccine distribution.
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