WHO warns of polio spread in Middle East if Gaza truce talks fail

The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised alarms over a potential polio outbreak in Gaza, following the confirmation of the first case in 25 years. The Palestinian Ministry of Health, alongside WHO and UNICEF, is urgently planning two rounds of polio vaccinations to curb the spread of the virus, which can lead to severe respiratory issues and paralysis. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the critical need for immediate action, warning that delays could result in more children suffering from paralysis. The situation is complicated by ongoing conflicts and stalled truce negotiations, which hinder the implementation of vaccination campaigns. The WHO's strategy involves using the oral polio vaccine (OPV), which, while effective in halting transmission, carries risks of vaccine-derived polio outbreaks due to potential mutations of the weakened virus. This has been observed in countries like Yemen and Sudan, raising concerns among health officials about the safety and efficacy of the vaccination approach in Gaza. To achieve the necessary immunization coverage of at least 95%, the vaccination campaign must overcome significant logistical challenges. Mercy Corps estimates that around 50,000 infants born in Gaza since the onset of the conflict have not received polio vaccinations. Health professionals are exploring alternative vaccination sites, such as schools and community centers, to reach these vulnerable populations effectively. As the region grapples with the dual threats of conflict and disease, the urgency for a ceasefire and a coordinated vaccination effort has never been more critical.