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Polio resurgence in Gaza: the great concern
Polio resurgence in Gaza: the great concern
(France 2)
The first case of polio has been detected after twenty-five years since the disease was eradicated in the Gaza Strip. The UN is calling for an immediate ceasefire in order to launch a major vaccination plan.
A race against time is underway in the Gaza Strip. The civilian population, already suffering from famine, is now facing a resurgence of polio. The viral infection can cause paralysis in children. Around 640,000 Gazans between the ages of 10 months and 10 years need urgent vaccination.
“Polio today is linked to the destruction of the health system, it is linked to an intentional blockade that limits the ability to bring in sufficient water, food, medicines and vaccines.”explains Jean-François Corty, doctor and president of Médecins du Monde. The vaccination campaign requires reliable structures, a cold chain and good dissemination of information.
