Gaza Children’s Lifeline: Crucial Catch-up Immunisation Campaign Launched
Amid escalating conflicts in Gaza, a significant initiative has been launched to address the urgent health needs of children. The Gaza Children’s Lifeline aims to provide crucial catch-up immunizations for children affected by the ongoing crisis.
Immunization Efforts for Vulnerable Children
Due to the war, it’s estimated that one in five children under three years old in Gaza are either zero-dose or have missed vital vaccinations. This puts them at heightened risk for preventable diseases. The catch-up campaign is designed to inoculate these children against critical illnesses such as:
- Measles
- Mumps
- Rubella
- Diphtheria
- Tetanus
- Pertussis (whooping cough)
- Hepatitis B
- Tuberculosis
- Polio
- Rotavirus
- Pneumonia
This campaign is a collaborative effort led by the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Gaza Ministry of Health.
A Moral Imperative
UNICEF’s Special Representative in Palestine, Jonathan Veitch, emphasized the urgency of this campaign, stating, “Vaccinating every child is not just a humanitarian intervention; it is a moral imperative.” He highlighted the catastrophic toll the war has taken, with over 20,000 children losing their lives.
The catch-up immunization campaign is set to unfold in three phases starting November 9 and running through the 18th. More than 450 health workers, along with 149 trained doctors, will oversee vaccination and monitor any post-immunization health issues.
Restoration of Health Infrastructure
Before the onset of conflict, Gaza boasted 54 operational immunization facilities, achieving a commendable 98% vaccination coverage. Currently, however, 31 facilities are non-functional due to damage sustained during attacks, resulting in vaccination rates dropping below 70%.
Dr. Richard Peeperkorn, WHO Representative for the occupied Palestinian territory, stated, “This immunization campaign is a lifeline.” He urged that rebuilding Gaza’s fragile health system is essential for ensuring all children can receive adequate care.
Future Steps and Ongoing Support
The campaign’s subsequent phases will provide children with their second and third vaccine doses in December and January. In 2024, a mass campaign will be initiated to vaccinate children against polio across the Gaza Strip.
In tandem with the immunization campaign, humanitarian efforts are ramping up. Daily meals served by 183 community kitchens have surged to over 1.2 million, an 80% increase since September. Other assistance includes food parcels, water supply improvements, and hygiene kit distribution.
Challenges to Humanitarian Aid
Despite ongoing efforts, significant challenges remain due to access restrictions and bureaucratic hurdles. UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq reported that while aid deliveries are increasing, much more is required to meet the needs of the population.
As humanitarian efforts continue, the need for a more robust response to restore health and well-being in Gaza cannot be overstated. The successful implementation of the Gaza Children’s Lifeline will play a crucial role in safeguarding the health of future generations.
