In September 2024, amidst the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, health workers administered the polio vaccine to Palestinian children. The World Health Organization revealed that Israel had agreed to three days of “humanitarian pauses” to allow for a vaccination campaign after Gaza reported its first case of polio in 25 years. Vaccination sites were set up in various locations, including Zawayda and Deir Al-Balah, where children received their vaccines at United Nations healthcare centers and hospitals. The vaccination drive aimed to prevent the spread of polio in the region and protect the vulnerable population amidst the ongoing conflict. Despite the challenging circumstances, health workers continued to carry out their responsibilities, ensuring that children were protected against the potentially debilitating disease. The cooperation between health organizations and authorities in the midst of conflict demonstrated a commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of the Palestinian population in Gaza.
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