Polio outbreak in Gaza threatens wider crisis
A new outbreak of polio in Gaza, exacerbated by ongoing conflict and deteriorating living conditions, has raised serious concerns about the potential for the virus to spread into neighboring Israel. Polio was initially detected in Gaza’s wastewater in mid-July, and a confirmed case of the disease in a child was reported over the weekend. This outbreak puts unvaccinated infants, soldiers, and hostages at high risk.
In response, the United Nations has announced plans to conduct two rounds of a polio vaccination campaign in Gaza, scheduled for the end of August and September. However, health experts caution that the ongoing conflict presents significant obstacles to executing an effective immunization campaign.
UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric highlighted the dire situation, noting that the Gaza Strip has been under evacuation orders for over 86% of its area since October 2023. “The already catastrophic situation in Gaza is worsening amid repeated waves of displacement, overcrowding, insecurity, and crumbling infrastructure,” Dujarric said.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres is closely monitoring negotiations in Doha aimed at ending the prolonged conflict in Gaza. The UN is calling for a ceasefire to facilitate urgent vaccination efforts and prevent a broader polio epidemic that could impact both Gaza and Israel.
Public health officials warn that the combination of low vaccination rates, displacement, and ongoing violence creates optimal conditions for the rapid spread of the polio virus. The success of the upcoming immunization campaign will be crucial in controlling the outbreak and preventing a wider crisis.
