Israeli Aggression Hinders Polio Vaccination Efforts in Gaza, Says Health Minister

RAMALLAH: The ongoing Israeli aggression in Gaza is preventing children from receiving the crucial second dose of the polio vaccine, according to Health Minister Majed Abu Ramadan. The situation poses significant risks to both children and health workers, who are unable to reach vaccination centers due to increasing violence. According to Maan News Agency, Minister Abu Ramadan emphasized the importance of the second vaccine dose in achieving full immunity against polio. He highlighted the immediate danger faced by children and healthcare personnel, whose movements are severely restricted amid the escalating conflict. The Ministry of Health has been actively reaching out to international health organizations, urging them to exert pressure on the Israeli authorities to cease hostilities and facilitate vaccination efforts. Efforts to immunize children have been disrupted for several days, prompting urgent appeals to global health bodies to intervene. The Ministry is calling for international support to ensure that health workers can safely access affected areas and administer the necessary vaccines to prevent a potential public health crisis.