UNICEF Launches Gaza Vaccination Drive, Critical Medical Supplies Blocked

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) announced that a new catch-up vaccination and health campaign is underway in Gaza, successfully administering vital vaccines to 2,400 children on its first day. This initiative aims to protect tens of thousands of young children who have missed routine immunizations during two years of conflict and violence.

Campaign Scope and Logistics

The campaign, a collaborative effort with the World Health Organization (WHO) and local partners, targets over 40,000 children under the age of three. It is planned in three rounds, with the first phase running from November 9-18 and subsequent rounds scheduled for December and January. The operation utilizes 149 health facilities and 10 mobile units, supported by more than 450 trained health workers, and also includes nutrition screenings and treatment for malnourished children.

System Damage and Urgent Needs

A UNICEF spokesperson, Ricardo Pires, highlighted the devastation of Gaza's previously robust health infrastructure. "Gaza once had 98% vaccination coverage and 55 immunization sites, but coverage has fallen below 70% with 31 vaccination facilities destroyed or damaged," he stated. He described the current drive as a first step towards recovery but warned that rebuilding requires urgent donor support. Pires also confirmed the safe start of the campaign, though its continuity depends on a sustained ceasefire and the protection of humanitarian workers and families.

Ongoing Access Restrictions

Despite a reported 260% increase in aid pallets entering Gaza since the ceasefire, UNICEF continues to face major obstacles. Pires revealed that while 1.6 million syringes have been brought to the region, the majority are still awaiting entry. Critical items, including auto-disable syringes and solar-powered refrigerators deemed "dual-use" by Israeli authorities, remain blocked or await clearance. "Yet, they are urgent," he emphasized. Similar access issues hinder other essentials, with maternity kits and nearly a million bottles of infant formula still withheld, even as winter clothing and blankets are distributed.