WHO to Resume Polio Vaccination Campaign in Gaza Following Virus Detection

Over 591,000 children under 10 will be targeted in a renewed effort to curb poliovirus spread in the region.

Poliovirus was recently detected in wastewater samples in Gaza, highlighting ongoing environmental circulation of the virus.
A mass vaccination campaign will run from February 22 to 26, aiming to immunize over 591,000 children under the age of 10, including those previously missed.
Previous vaccination efforts in September and October 2024 reached over 95% of targeted children but left approximately 7,000 unvaccinated in inaccessible areas due to conflict.
The current ceasefire, effective since January 19, has improved access for health workers, enabling broader vaccination coverage.
Polio remains a significant risk in Gaza due to overcrowding, damaged sanitation infrastructure, and increased population movement, which facilitate virus transmission.