Six environmental samples of variant poliovirus type 2 have been detected from Khan Younis and Deir al Balah in
#Gaza. No paralytic cases have been detected.
@WHO, the Ministry of Health,
@UNICEF,
@UNRWA and partners are conducting a risk assessment on the scope of poliovirus spread and the necessary response to stop any further spread, including prompt vaccination campaigns.
Prior to the conflict,
#polio vaccination rates in Gaza were optimal.
The decimation of the health system, lack of security, access obstruction, constant population displacement, shortages of medical supplies, poor quality of water and weakened sanitation are increasing the risk of vaccine-preventable diseases, including polio. This poses a risk for children and creates the perfect environment for diseases like polio to spread.
A ceasefire is essential to allow an effective response.