After 25 years in Gaza, the polio virus is gaining momentum again. According to the UN, the presence of polio virus was found in the water samples collected in June.
A 10-month-old baby in Gaza is in stable condition after developing paralysis in one leg.
On this occasion, the UN, WHO, UNICEF etc have stood up for the full availability of vaccines in Gaza.
WHO has given the approval of 1.6 million doses of vaccine. UNICEF coordinating their delivery along with cold storage units and UNRWA will administer these vaccines once they arrive.
Israel Defense Force (IDF) said 282,126 vaccines have been sent to Gaza since the start of the war and that they did not prevent any kind of health team and vaccines from coming to Gaza.
What is Polio?
Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a highly infectious viral disease that primarily affects children under the age of five. The poliovirus spreads through contaminated food and water, leading to paralysis in severe cases. This debilitating disease was once a global health crisis, causing widespread fear and concern before the introduction of effective vaccines.
The History of Polio
The history of polio dates back thousands of years, with evidence of its existence found in ancient Egyptian artworks. However, the modern epidemic emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, resulting in thousands of cases worldwide. The significant breakthrough in the fight against polio came in the 1950s with the development of the Salk and later the Sabin vaccines, which effectively reduced the incidence of polio in many countries.
Global Efforts to Eradicate Polio
Since the launch of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) in 1988, concerted efforts have led to a dramatic decline in polio cases globally. Vaccination campaigns have been pivotal, focusing particularly in regions where polio remains endemic. Despite these efforts, challenges remain, particularly in conflict-affected areas, where routine immunization is difficult. Continued vigilance and commitment are essential to ensure that polio is eradicated completely.
