Gaza Begins Polio Vaccination Campaign Amid Ongoing Conflict
A vaccination campaign to protect children in Gaza against polio and prevent the spread of the virus was launched at Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis on August 31, 2024. Despite the ongoing military offensives in Gaza and the West Bank, children are receiving crucial vaccines to fight against the debilitating disease.
The World Health Organization confirmed that the larger-scale vaccination campaign would begin on Sunday, with an aim to reach approximately 650,000 Palestinian children. Even amidst the conflict, health workers are striving to provide essential healthcare services to the vulnerable population.
Dr. Bassam Abu Ahmed, the general coordinator of public health programs at Al-Quds University, expressed optimism about the success of the campaign, despite the challenging circumstances. This initiative comes after Gaza reported its first polio case in 25 years, underscoring the urgency of vaccination efforts.
While conflict continues to ravage the region, healthcare workers are dedicated to safeguarding the health and well-being of children in Gaza, emphasizing the importance of immunization in the midst of adversity.