Caritas Jerusalem remains at the forefront of the fight to protect children in Gaza from polio, as has proudly participated in the third phase of the critical polio vaccination campaign. This phase, which took place in February 2025, was a testament to the resilience and dedication of Caritas Jerusalem’s team, as well as our ongoing collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, the Ministry of Health (MOH), and other vital partners.

The third phase of the polio vaccination campaign across Gaza was coordinated by the Ministry of Health in close partnership with WHO, UNICEF, and other key stakeholders. The goal was clear: to vaccinate every child under the age of 10 to prevent the spread of the poliovirus. In total, nearly 603,000 children were vaccinated throughout Gaza—an extraordinary achievement, with over 586,000 children already receiving the vaccine by February 2025, reaching 99 per cent of the target population.

At Caritas Jerusalem’s medical point in Gaza City, 1,744 children were welcomed as part of this crucial effort. The medical staff worked tirelessly to administer the vaccines, despite the ongoing challenges and risks posed by the region’s volatile circumstances.

Since the onset of the polio vaccination campaign, Caritas Jerusalem has been instrumental in supporting the WHO and the Ministry of Health. Our medical facilities have provided a safe space for children to receive the vaccine, and our dedicated teams have ensured that these interventions are conducted swiftly and effectively. Our facilities in Gaza City have served as a critical hub for this campaign, helping to ensure that as many children as possible are protected from the dangers of polio.

Despite the numerous obstacles posed by the challenging situation on the ground, Caritas Jerusalem remains committed to offering both immediate healthcare and long-term support to the people of Gaza. The risk of polio is high, particularly in areas where healthcare access is limited, and our work has been essential in bridging that gap.