Despite severe challenges posed by Israel in Gaza, the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF have successfully completed the second round of a polio vaccination campaign across the Gaza Strip, achieving 94 percent coverage of the target population of children under 10. However, thousands of children in northern Gaza remain unvaccinated due to restricted access and escalating violence, raising concerns about the potential spread of poliovirus.

The campaign, which began in September 2024, provided a second dose of the novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2) to 556,774 children under the age of 10. Additionally, 448,425 children aged two to 10 received vitamin A supplements to enhance immunity. 

Central and southern Gaza achieved vaccination coverage rates of 103% and 91%, respectively, while northern Gaza reached 88%, reflecting access challenges in areas like Jabalia, Beit Lahia, and Beit Hanoun.

Despite these successes, approximately 7,000 to 10,000 children in inaccessible northern areas remain unvaccinated. This gap not only endangers these children but also heightens the risk of poliovirus transmission both within Gaza and in neighboring regions.

The vaccination campaign’s third phase in northern Gaza, initially planned for October 2024, was delayed due to heavy bombardments, mass displacements, and a lack of guaranteed humanitarian pauses by Israel. After a careful assessment by a technical committee comprising the Palestinian Ministry of Health, WHO, UNICEF, and UNRWA, the campaign resumed on November 2 under a reduced operational area limited to Gaza City.

The displacement of more than 150,000 people from northern Gaza to Gaza City unexpectedly increased the reach of the campaign, allowing health workers to vaccinate more children than anticipated in this phase. Over 200 vaccination teams, supported by a robust social mobilization effort, ensured that communities were engaged and informed about the campaign.

At least two doses of the vaccine and a 90% coverage rate in every community are necessary to effectively halt the circulation of the poliovirus in Gaza. While the campaign's conclusion marks a significant milestone, efforts to boost immunity will continue through routine immunization services at operational healthcare facilities. Enhanced disease surveillance is also being prioritised to quickly detect any further poliovirus transmission in both children and environmental samples.

WHO and UNICEF have reiterated their call for sustained humanitarian pauses, not only to enable polio vaccination but also to facilitate broader health and humanitarian interventions. The organisations emphasised that the campaign demonstrated the potential of humanitarian ceasefires to deliver life-saving health services even under dire circumstances.

Since October 2023, Gaza has faced relentless genocide, with over 145,000 casualties, the majority being women and children, alongside massive displacement and destruction. The ongoing blockade has further exacerbated food insecurity and healthcare challenges, leaving millions in urgent need of assistance.

This polio vaccination campaign is a testament to the resilience of health workers, communities, and international organisations working tirelessly to protect children in Gaza. However, the situation remains critical, and international cooperation is essential to prevent further humanitarian and public health crises.

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