…Ceasefire Enables Largest Round Yet in Ongoing Outbreak Response
By Bunmi Yekini
Gaza’s five-day mass polio vaccination campaign concluded on Wednesday, successfully immunizing nearly 603,000 children under 10 with the novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2). Conducted amid an ongoing ceasefire, the campaign marked a crucial step in halting the spread of poliovirus in the region.
An additional 40,000 children received the vaccine compared to previous rounds in September and October 2024, thanks to improved access to previously unreachable areas, particularly in North Gaza. Led by the Palestinian Ministry of Health with support from WHO, UNICEF, and UNRWA, the campaign mobilized 1,660 vaccination teams, including 1,242 mobile units, despite challenging weather conditions.
Health officials emphasized the importance of continued surveillance and routine immunization to prevent further outbreaks, urging for a lasting ceasefire to safeguard public health efforts.