This weekend marks a significant milestone in the fight against polio in Gaza, as the United Nations (UN) begins its multi-agency polio vaccine campaign in the region. Despite the ongoing constraints and challenges faced by humanitarian operations and mobility in Gaza, the campaign will push through with the assurance from Israel to pause fighting for its successful implementation. In a virtual briefing to reporters, Rik Peeperkorn, the World Health Organization (WHO) Representative for Palestine, expressed his optimism and determination for the campaign.
Polio is a highly infectious and debilitating disease that mainly affects young children, causing paralysis and even death. It is a disease that has plagued humanity for centuries, but thanks to vaccines, it has been on the verge of eradication. However, in conflict-affected areas like Gaza, where access to essential health services is limited, the risk of polio resurfacing is high.
That is why the UN, in collaboration with the Palestinian Ministry of Health, is taking a proactive approach to prevent the spread of polio in Gaza. The polio vaccine campaign, which is set to start this weekend, aims to immunize more than 200,000 children below the age of five against the disease. It will be a massive undertaking, given the current situation in Gaza, but the UN is determined to overcome all obstacles to protect the children of Gaza from polio.
The success of this polio vaccine campaign would not have been possible without the cooperation and support of Israel. The country has pledged to halt all fighting during the campaign to ensure the safety and security of the children and health workers. This gesture of goodwill and commitment from Israel is a significant step towards building trust and fostering peaceful relations between the two sides.
In his briefing, Peeperkorn highlighted the importance of the ceasefire and Israel’s cooperation in the success of the campaign. He emphasized that immunizing children against polio is not a political issue but a humanitarian and health issue. The campaign will not only protect children from polio but also contribute to the overall health and wellbeing of the community in Gaza.
The UN’s polio vaccine campaign is a testament to the organization’s commitment to the health and wellbeing of all people, especially those living in conflict-affected areas. It is a reminder that amid the chaos and turmoil, the UN is working tirelessly to provide essential services and support to those in need.
The campaign will face many challenges, but the UN and its partners are well-prepared. Health workers have been adequately trained on the COVID-19 safety protocols to ensure the safety of both the beneficiaries and the workers. Additionally, the UN has put in place measures to ensure the smooth transportation of vaccines to the targeted areas.
The success of the polio vaccine campaign in Gaza will not only be a significant achievement for the UN but also a ray of hope for the people of Gaza. It is a step towards a healthier and more peaceful future for the children in Gaza, who have been born and raised in a war-torn environment.
As we embark on this crucial campaign, it is essential to acknowledge the tireless efforts of the health workers in Gaza who have been working tirelessly to provide essential health services amid the ongoing crisis. Their dedication and resilience are commendable, and they are the true heroes of this campaign.
In conclusion, the UN’s polio vaccine campaign in Gaza, set to begin this weekend, is a significant step towards eradicating polio in the region. With the support and cooperation of the Palestinian Ministry of Health and Israel, we are confident that this campaign will be a success and make a positive impact on the lives of the children in Gaza. Let us all work together towards a polio-free Gaza, and a healthier and more peaceful future for all.
