Sally Saleh1, Hani Matar1, Jasem Humeid1, Nihad AbuZiada2, Motasem Hamdan2
Abstract
Background: Since October 7th, 2023, the Gaza Strip has been subjected to unprecedented Israeli military operations with serious implications for people’s health and the healthcare system. In July 2024, a polio outbreak emerged amidst mass displacement, lack of sanitation, and a decline in routine vaccinations, increasing the risk of rapid disease spread among unvaccinated children. This study undertakes a policy analysis of the response measures implemented to address this outbreak.
Methodology: This analysis was based on two main methods: a desk review of relevant published and grey literature and in-depth interviews with key informants.
Results: The polio eradication response plan was developed by the Palestinian Ministry of Health (MoH) in cooperation with international and national organizations. The response plan involved vaccinating the target population (children under 10 years of age), empowering the workforce, integrating other health services, utilizing an outreach approach, and enhancing monitoring through surveillance.
Conclusion: Overall, the response plan to the polio outbreak was generally successful, despite facing several challenges, including infrastructure damage, the collapse of the healthcare system, widespread malnutrition, and continuity of hostilities.
Keywords: Gaza, governance, Palestine, policy analysis, Poliomyelitis.