Intense bombardments and mass displacements in northern Gaza have forced the postponement of the third phase of the polio vaccination campaign, initially set to begin on October 23, 2024.

The campaign aimed to administer a second dose of the novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2) to approximately 119,279 children under ten years old.

Ongoing attacks on civilian infrastructure have compromised the safety of families and health workers, making vaccination efforts unfeasible.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF emphasize that at least 90% vaccination coverage is essential to halt poliovirus  transmission.

The postponement raises concerns about the potential spread of poliovirus within Gaza and to neighboring regions.