Abu Dhabi: The United Arab Emirates has significantly expedited the vaccination of more than 187,000 children in Gaza following the first recorded case of type 2 polio in the Strip in 25 years. This emergency effort, in collaboration with WHO, UNICEF and UNRWA, aims to immunize a total of 640,000 children.
President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan directed $5 million to support this urgent vaccination campaign, a crucial part of broader relief efforts for the Palestinian people. The initiative is especially critical given the widespread displacement, overcrowding, and the damaged healthcare and sanitation infrastructure in Gaza.
To date, 1.26 million doses of the polio vaccine have arrived in Gaza, with more expected soon. Distributed by 2,100 medical staff, the vaccines will be administered in phases, utilizing temporary ceasefire periods for each area. The campaign is in a race against time, with additional 400,000 doses expected to arrive in the coming days. UAE’s Ongoing Humanitarian Commitment to Gaza will continue in every aspect
The UAE’s support extends beyond vaccination. Humanitarian initiatives include treating 1,000 wounded children and 1,000 cancer patients at the Emirates Humanitarian City, as well as delivering essential medical supplies and water aid. Through Operation Chivalrous Knight 3, the UAE has provided 130 million gallons of clean water to Gaza via six desalination stations located in Rafah, Egypt.