The first phase of a two-round polio vaccination campaign in central Gaza has successfully concluded, with over 187,000 children under ten years of age receiving the novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2) between 1–3 September 2024. This surpassed the initial target of 157,000 children due to population movement and expanded coverage outside the designated humanitarian pause zone.
Vaccination will continue at four large health facilities in central Gaza over the coming days to ensure no child is missed. Vaccine doses have been supplied to these sites to meet additional needs.
Dr. Richard Peeperkorn, WHO Representative for the occupied Palestinian territory, expressed optimism: “Thousands of children have been vaccinated despite challenging conditions, thanks to the dedication of families and health workers. We hope this positive momentum continues.”
The campaign involved 513 teams of over 2,180 health and outreach workers. Vaccines were administered at 143 fixed sites, including hospitals, camps for displaced persons, and mobile units reaching hard-to-access areas. Special missions targeted areas just outside the humanitarian pause zone, such as Al-Maghazi and Al-Bureij.
Preparations for the second phase, scheduled for 5–8 September in southern Gaza, are underway, aiming to vaccinate 340,000 children. The final phase will take place in northern Gaza from 9–11 September, targeting 150,000 children.
At least 90% coverage during each round is essential to halt the polio outbreak, prevent international spread, and reduce re-emergence risks due to Gaza’s disrupted health and sanitation systems. The campaign is being conducted by the Palestinian Ministry of Health in partnership with WHO, UNICEF, UNRWA, and other key organizations.
“The successful completion of this first phase highlights the critical role of coordination and peace in ensuring public health,” said Dr. Peeperkorn.
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