The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed serious concerns about the potential for polio outbreaks in the Gaza Strip due to the poor sanitation conditions in the area. Dr. Ayadil Saparbekov, the Head of Health Emergencies for the WHO in the occupied Palestinian territory, highlighted the high risk of the spread of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus 2 in Gaza, primarily due to the dire water sanitation situation.
Last month, traces of the highly infectious polio virus were discovered in sewage in Gaza, posing a significant threat to thousands of Palestinians who could be at risk of contracting the disease, which can lead to paralysis. While no cases of paralysis have been reported so far, residents are urged to be vigilant against the potential threat of polio.
In addition to polio, other diseases such as Hepatitis A have also been identified in Gaza, further exacerbating the already challenging health situation in the region. The crippled health system, inadequate water and sanitation facilities, and limited access to primary healthcare services have created a concerning scenario in Gaza.
The WHO, in collaboration with its partners, is conducting an epidemiological investigation and risk assessment, with results expected by the end of the week. Based on the findings, the WHO will formulate recommendations, including the necessity for a mass vaccination campaign to prevent the spread of polio.
Dr. Saparbekov emphasized the critical need for primary healthcare services in Gaza, noting that essential services for vaccination and child health are currently not operating at their full capacity. The situation is further complicated by the lack of functioning healthcare facilities.
Meanwhile, the Israeli military has initiated the vaccination of troops operating in certain parts of Gaza against polio. Collaborative efforts with international organizations are underway to facilitate the delivery of additional vaccines to the Gaza Strip, aiming to mitigate the risk of a polio outbreak.
