Polio outbreak in Gaza

It has been confirmed that in Gaza, a 10-month-old boy has suffered paralysis in one leg as a result of a polio infection. This is the first confirmed case of polio in Gaza in 25 years.

There may be more cases – perhaps many more – that have not been reported or diagnosed. Because of the confused and chaotic situation in Gaza, it is very difficult to get a clear and accurate picture.

It is certainly the case that a polio virus variant is circulating in Gaza. The virus has been detected and identified by testing facilities in Israel. Given that sanitation systems and water supplies in Gaza have been severely compromised there is a very real danger of a substantial outbreak. An outbreak of a variety of other water-borne diseases is already an issue given the lack of adequate medical facilities.

Both the Israeli military and Hamas have agreed that in three separate zones there will be cessation of hostilities. In each case military action will be paused for three days to allow vaccinations to be carried out.

Over a million doses of vaccine have been delivered to the area, and the aim is to vaccinate over 640,000 children under the age of 10 years.

Should it be necessary there is an agreement to extend the cease-fire in each zone for one additional day.

However, the UN Food Agency has had to cancel all movement of personnel in Gaza after an aid convoy was targeted by the Israeli military. Fears for the safety of aid workers remains an issue and there is no certainty that all the planned vaccination events will take place.

Rotary has provided $500,000 to add to the contributions of the WHO and various others to meet the immediate needs for vaccines and personnel. The initial rollout has been more effective than anticipated with 560,000 children vaccinated by mid September.

The situation in Gaza will be closely monitored. An outbreak of polio in this area has the potential to spread to neighbouring countries and the threat of a substantial outbreak is a real possibility. We can only hope that the planned vaccination events will go ahead.