WHO chief calls Gaza polio campaign 'massive success' as over 560,000 children jabbed

GENEVA

The World Health Organization (WHO) chief on Friday said that the first round of polio vaccination campaign in Gaza ended with reaching more than 560,000 children across the strip.

"Over 560,000 children aged below ten years of age were vaccinated against polio during the first round of an emergency vaccination campaign in Gaza, which was completed yesterday," Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on X.

Tedros expressed admiration for all the health teams that conducted the "complex operation" and gratitude to the families for their trust and cooperation.

"This is a massive success amidst a tragic daily reality of life across the Gaza Strip," he said and added: "Imagine what could be achieved with a ceasefire!"

WHO spokesperson Richard Peeperkorn provided details about the second part of the campaign during a virtual news conference on Thursday, saying: "We've had those discussions, of course, with all parties, and they are very well aware that in four weeks time, we start a second round."

Peeperkorn noted the date is not decided and the technical committee is still analyzing, including the mentioned day of Oct. 14.

"We will also have those ongoing discussions on this area of specific humanitarian pauses. By then, I would hope that we don't need those discussions anymore," he said, hoping for a cease-fire.​​​​​​​