The UN’s World Health Organization (WHO) has announced its plan to vaccinate 640,000 children in response to a recent polio case detected in Gaza. This case, the first in 25 years, involved a 10-month-old baby who contracted the virus, raising concerns about the potential spread of the disease in the region. The WHO’s vaccination initiative aims to prevent further cases and protect the health of children in the area, emphasizing the urgent need for immunization efforts.

In light of the polio case and the importance of a swift response, the WHO has worked to secure a temporary truce to allow for the safe distribution of vaccines. Israel and Hamas have agreed to a “humanitarian pause” on three different days to facilitate the vaccination rollout. This agreement is crucial, as it will enable health workers to reach a large number of children, ensuring that the vaccination campaign can proceed without the disruptions caused by ongoing conflict.

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The WHO’s vaccination campaign represents a significant effort to combat the resurgence of polio in Gaza, a region already facing numerous challenges due to the ongoing conflict. By vaccinating 640,000 children, the WHO aims to curb the spread of the virus and protect the vulnerable population. The “humanitarian pause” agreed upon by Israel and Hamas underscores the importance of collaboration in addressing public health crises, even amidst conflict, to ensure the safety and well-being of children in Gaza.