Ramallah: Health Minister Dr. Majed Abu Ramadan announced the initiation of the second round of the polio vaccination campaign in the Gaza Strip, targeting children under ten years of age starting Monday.
According to Maan News Agency, the ongoing vaccination effort will be conducted in three phases. The first phase is set to take place in the central region of Deir al-Balah from October 14 to 17, with a possibility of extending an additional day if necessary. The subsequent phases will see teams moving to Khan Yunis and Rafah governorates from October 19-22, followed by Gaza and the North governorates from October 22-25.
The campaign will administer the second dose of the oral polio vaccine (OPV), coupled with Vitamin A supplementation to boost the children’s immune systems, enhance their ability to fight infections, and support healthy growth and improved vision. The Health Ministry plans to vaccinate 591,700 children and has organized both fixed and mobile units to ensure comprehensive coverage.
The Min
istry emphasized the critical need for a humanitarian truce during the campaign period. This pause in hostilities is deemed essential for ensuring the safety of polio workers and facilitating access to vaccines for families across the region.