Today, the world received some much-needed good news as the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) announced the successful completion of the first round of Gaza’s polio vaccination campaign. Philippe Lazzarini, the chief of UNRWA, confirmed that the campaign has reached an impressive 90 percent coverage, laying the foundation for a healthier future for the people of Gaza.
The second round of the campaign is set to begin by the end of September, aiming to achieve 100 percent coverage in Gaza. This is a major step towards eradicating polio in the region and ensuring the well-being of future generations. The success of the first round is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all those involved in this important campaign.
The first round of the polio vaccination campaign was launched in early August, targeting over 300,000 children under the age of five. UNRWA and its partners worked tirelessly to ensure that every child in Gaza had access to the life-saving vaccine. Through a coordinated effort, the campaign was able to reach even the most remote and hard-to-reach areas, ensuring that no child was left behind.
The results of the campaign are truly remarkable, with 90 percent of the targeted children receiving the vaccine. This is a testament to the determination and perseverance of the teams on the ground, who faced numerous challenges in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Despite these obstacles, they remained committed to their mission of protecting the health and well-being of the vulnerable population in Gaza.
Polio is a highly infectious viral disease that primarily affects children under the age of five. It can lead to permanent paralysis and even death in some cases. The polio vaccine is safe, effective, and free of charge, making it the most powerful tool in the fight against this deadly disease. By ensuring that Gaza’s children are vaccinated, we are not only protecting their lives but also safeguarding the future of the entire community.
The second round of the polio vaccination campaign is crucial in maintaining the progress made in the first round. This campaign will reach every child who may have missed the first round or who needs a second dose for full protection. It is vital that we continue this momentum and achieve 100 percent coverage in Gaza to eliminate the risk of polio once and for all.
Furthermore, this campaign is a testament to the enduring commitment of the international community to the people of Gaza. The ongoing support from our partners, donors, and volunteers is essential in ensuring the success of such campaigns and the overall well-being of the refugees in Gaza. We are grateful for their support and stand together in our efforts to provide a better future for the people of Gaza.
In conclusion, we celebrate the success of the first round of Gaza’s polio vaccination campaign, which has reached an impressive 90 percent coverage. This achievement is a result of the hard work and dedication of all those involved, and we are immensely proud of the results. As we prepare for the second round, we must continue to work together to ensure that every child in Gaza is protected from this deadly disease. With our collective efforts, we can make a significant impact in the lives of the people of Gaza and pave the way for a healthier and brighter future.
