Catch-Up Immunisation Campaign Offers Lifeline to Gaza Children

A baby receives the polio vaccine during an immunization campaign in Gaza in October 2024. (file)

Estimates indicate that one in five children under three are either zero-dose or have missed vaccinations because of the war, putting them at risk of outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases.

The catch-up campaign aims to vaccinate children against measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, tuberculosis, polio, rotavirus, and pneumonia. It will be carried out by UNICEF, UNRWA, WHO, and partners in collaboration with the Gaza Ministry of Health.

A Moral Imperative

In addition to immunisation, UNICEF and partners will screen children for malnutrition and provide treatment and follow-up care where needed.

“After two years of relentless violence that claimed the lives of over 20,000 children in Gaza, we now have an opportunity to protect those who survived,” said Jonathan Veitch, UNICEF Special Representative in Palestine.

“Vaccinating every child and supporting their health and nutrition is not just humanitarian—it is a moral imperative. It safeguards the future of children born into catastrophe and restores hope amid devastation.”

Hundreds of Trained Workers

The campaign will be implemented in three rounds, beginning 9 to 18 November. Over 450 health workers and support staff have been trained to assist with vaccinations. Additionally, 149 medical doctors have been trained to identify and respond to any health concerns post-immunisation, though such cases are rare.

Much More Is Needed

“This immunisation campaign is a lifeline for Gaza’s children,” said Dr. Richard Peeperkorn, WHO Representative in the occupied Palestinian territory.

He added that rebuilding Gaza’s fragile health system remains essential so every child and community can access the care they need. Before the conflict, Gaza had 54 immunisation facilities with a 98 per cent childhood vaccination rate. Today, only 31 facilities remain operational, and routine coverage has fallen below 70 per cent.

The second and third rounds of the campaign are planned for December and January. In 2024, a mass polio vaccination campaign was also conducted across Gaza.

Humanitarian Scale-Up

Humanitarian teams continue daily assistance despite access restrictions and other challenges. Over 183 community kitchens served 1.2 million meals on Monday, an 80 per cent increase since September.

Aid distributions also include food parcels, hygiene kits, water access points, winter supplies, and cash vouchers for displaced families. Cargo deliveries into Gaza include food, blankets, tents, hygiene items, fuel, and animal fodder.

“The UN and partners are actively working to lift obstacles and restrictions to ensure no one is left behind,” said UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq.