UAE's Vital Support for WHO's Polio Eradication Efforts in Gaza

A Commitment to Global Health Amid Crisis

In a significant move to combat the re-emergence of the poliovirus in Gaza, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has pledged $5 million to support a critical vaccination campaign aimed at protecting the region's children. This initiative, which has garnered appreciation from the World Health Organization (WHO), underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing public health challenges, particularly in areas affected by conflict.

Addressing a Renewed Health Crisis

The urgency of this campaign arises from the alarming confirmation of the first case of polio in Gaza in 25 years, reported on August 16, 2024. The case involved a 10-month-old infant who had not received any vaccinations, raising concerns about the potential for a wider outbreak in a region already grappling with severe humanitarian crises. The WHO has noted that the detection of the poliovirus in Gaza follows months of planning and surveillance, highlighting the need for immediate action to protect vulnerable populations.

The UAE's financial commitment will facilitate a two-round vaccination campaign, set to commence on September 1, 2024. The goal is to vaccinate over 640,000 children under the age of 10 with two doses each. The campaign will be executed in collaboration with the WHO, UNICEF, and the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), ensuring a coordinated effort to reach every child in need.

A Comprehensive Vaccination Strategy

The vaccination campaign will be implemented in a staggered manner, beginning in Central Gaza and subsequently moving to the southern and northern regions. Each phase will last three days and will coincide with humanitarian pauses to allow safe access for healthcare workers and families. This strategic approach is critical, given the overcrowded and disrupted health systems in Gaza, where at least 90% vaccination coverage is necessary to prevent further spread of the virus.

In preparation for this initiative, approximately 1.26 million doses of the polio vaccine have already been delivered to Gaza, with an additional 400,000 doses expected soon. More than 2,100 health workers, including mobile teams, will be mobilized to ensure the effective delivery of the vaccine during both rounds of the campaign.

UAE's Ongoing Humanitarian Efforts

The UAE's support for the polio vaccination campaign is part of a broader commitment to humanitarian assistance in Gaza. Under the leadership of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE has been proactive in delivering over 40,000 tons of urgent supplies, including food, medical aid, and shelter materials, to the beleaguered population. Additionally, the UAE has established a field hospital in southern Gaza and a floating hospital at the Egyptian port of Al-Arish, providing essential medical care to thousands of injured Palestinians.

This multifaceted approach not only addresses immediate health needs but also contributes to long-term stability and recovery in the region. The UAE's initiatives include the establishment of six water desalination plants in Rafah, which supply over 600,000 Gazans with clean water, further enhancing the region's resilience against health crises.

Acknowledgment from WHO

The WHO Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has publicly expressed gratitude for the UAE's generous contribution, recognizing the country as a longstanding supporter of global health initiatives. His appreciation reflects the critical role that international partnerships play in combating infectious diseases and ensuring healthcare access in vulnerable regions.

The UAE's $5 million pledge for the polio vaccination campaign in Gaza represents a vital step in the fight against a resurgent health crisis. This initiative not only aims to protect the health of children but also exemplifies the power of international cooperation in addressing public health challenges. As the campaign unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the importance of sustained commitment and collaboration in ensuring the well-being of communities affected by conflict and disease. Together, with the support of the global community, the goal of eradicating polio can become a reality, safeguarding future generations from this preventable disease.