WHO Concerned Over Possible Polio Outbreak in Gaza
The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed serious concern about a potential polio outbreak in Gaza after traces of the virus were detected in wastewater. Dr. Ayadil Saparbekov, WHO’s lead in the Palestinian territories, said a risk assessment is underway. In the meantime, health workers are advising Gaza’s 2.3 million residents on how to protect themselves. However, following these guidelines is challenging due to the breakdown of water and sanitation services.
Virus Traces Found in Sewage
A month ago, polio traces were found in sewage samples from two different sites in Gaza, suggesting the virus might be spreading. So far, there have been no reported cases of paralysis caused by polio. The Israeli military has begun vaccinating its soldiers and has sent about 300,000 vaccines to Gaza since the conflict between Israel and Hamas began in October.
Need for Mass Vaccination
The WHO and UNICEF are considering a mass vaccination campaign in Gaza. However, ongoing delays in delivering aid and the high security risks make this difficult. The Israeli military is working with various organizations to deliver vaccines to Palestinians in Gaza.
Polio and Its Spread
Polio is a highly infectious virus that spreads through contact with the feces of an infected person or, less commonly, through droplets when they cough or sneeze. It can cause paralysis and, in severe cases, death. Before the conflict, immunization rates in Gaza and the West Bank were high, with polio vaccine coverage at 99% in 2022. This dropped to 89% last year.
Health System Challenges
Gaza’s health system has been severely affected by the conflict, with only 16 out of 36 hospitals partially functional. The lack of security, access issues, constant displacement, shortages of medical supplies, poor water quality, and weakened sanitation have all contributed to the decreased immunization rates and increased risk of disease spread. Many people in Gaza are living in shelters with only one toilet for 600 people and have limited access to safe drinking water.
Calls for a Ceasefire
The WHO has stressed that a ceasefire is essential for an effective response to the health crisis. Eight Israeli public health professors echoed this call in an op-ed, emphasizing the need for action to protect both Palestinian and Israeli infants who have not completed their vaccinations. “We know what needs to be done. It must be done for the sake of all residents of the region. This is not about politics. This is about health and life,” they wrote.
