WHO Warns of Potential Polio Outbreak in Gaza

Humanitarian and health organizations are deeply concerned about a potential polio outbreak in Gaza after traces of the virus were found in wastewater samples from Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis. Despite no reported human cases, Gaza's deteriorated health infrastructure and low vaccination rates pose significant risks. The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned of high transmission risks within Gaza and internationally and proposed urgent mass vaccination campaigns. The Israeli military has commenced vaccinating soldiers stationed in Gaza to prevent the virus from spreading. The crisis is exacerbated by poor sanitation, water shortages, and overcrowding due to the ongoing conflict, raising fears of broader communicable disease outbreaks in the region.