Traces of Polio Found in Gaza Wastewater
The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed serious concern over a potential polio outbreak in Gaza after traces of the highly infectious virus were detected in wastewater. The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza has called the situation a “new health disaster.”
Risk Assessment and Challenges
Dr. Ayadil Saparbekov, head of the WHO’s team in the Palestinian territories, stated that a risk assessment is underway. Health workers in Gaza are currently advising the population of 2.3 million on how to protect themselves. However, following these guidelines is challenging due to the breakdown of water and sanitation services.
Polio Virus in Sewage Samples
Traces of the polio virus were found in sewage samples from two different sites in Gaza a month ago, suggesting the virus might be circulating. Although no paralytic cases have been reported yet, the situation is alarming.
Israeli Military Response
The Israeli military has started vaccinating its soldiers as a precaution. Additionally, the WHO and UNICEF are considering a mass vaccination campaign in Gaza. However, logistical challenges, such as delays in aid delivery and security risks, make it difficult to implement an effective campaign.
Vaccines and Health Infrastructure
The Israeli military claims to have sent about 300,000 vaccines to Gaza since the beginning of the conflict between Israel and Hamas in October. Polio, which spreads through contact with infected feces or droplets from coughing or sneezing, can cause paralysis and death.
Before the conflict, immunization rates in Gaza and the West Bank were high, with polio vaccine coverage estimated at 99% in 2022. However, this dropped to 89% last year. The ongoing conflict has severely damaged Gaza’s health system, with only 16 out of 36 hospitals partially functional. This has led to reduced immunization rates and increased the risk of disease spread.
Living Conditions and Health Risks
Dr. Saparbekov highlighted that many people in Gaza are living in shelters with just one toilet for 600 people and have limited access to safe drinking water. Gaza’s health ministry recently warned of a “health catastrophe” due to polio found in wastewater near displacement camps and residential areas.
Call for Ceasefire and International Appeal
The WHO emphasized that a ceasefire is essential for an effective health response. Eight Israeli public health professors also called for action in an op-ed in Haaretz, stressing that the health risk affects both Palestinian and Israeli infants. They urged immediate action for the sake of all residents in the region, emphasizing that this is a health and life issue, not a political one.