On Sunday, the IDF initiated a gradual polio vaccination program for thousands of troops in combat divisions in Gaza. The move follows the discovery of poliovirus in Gaza's sewage monitoring, sparking concerns about the virus's presence and possible undetected cases in the area.
Concurrently, the IDF is working to facilitate vaccine delivery for Gaza's civilian population. However, officials stress that there is currently no evidence of a polio outbreak in Gaza.
All soldiers in combat divisions and support units will receive a single dose of the polio vaccine, identical to that given to infants in Israel up to age one. Vaccinations will be administered in staging areas before troops enter Gaza.
Soldiers with incomplete childhood vaccination records will receive an additional dose. The campaign is set to last about three weeks, with soldiers retaining the right to refuse vaccination. The decision to vaccinate troops during rotation breaks was made due to the absence of urgency to immunize forces inside Gaza, as the risk level does not warrant immediate action.
"There's no need to rush to Rafah with syringes," an official stated. "The risk level doesn't justify such action."
Meanwhile, Major General Ghassan Alian, Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, is liaising with international partners to enable the entry of additional polio vaccine doses for Gaza residents.
The decision followed a situation assessment by the Medical Corps, led by its head Brigadier General Dr. Zivan Aviad-Beer. It forms part of the Medical Corps' expanded responsibilities and aims to protect both military personnel and the Israeli public.
Low infection risk
Approximately 95% of children in Israel are vaccinated against polio, indicating a low risk of infection for IDF forces. Nevertheless, providing a vaccine booster during a potential outbreak aims to prevent infection and minimize risks to soldiers and civilians alike.
The IDF is conducting independent sewage sampling in areas where troops are stationed or expected to be deployed to monitor the risk. Field medical personnel have been briefed on disease symptoms and identification.
Most individuals who contract polio will be asymptomatic or experience very mild symptoms. Only about one in a thousand infected persons may develop paralysis.
IDF Spokesperson's Unit stated: "Following reports of poliovirus presence in Gaza, the IDF conducted sampling tests in various areas, detecting traces of the virus, transmitted in drinking water or through oral contact with contaminated water. Consequently, the IDF, in coordination with the Health Ministry, decided to vaccinate combat forces against the virus to protect both IDF personnel and Israeli citizens.
"The Technological and Logistics Directorate has launched a comprehensive vaccination campaign for all combat forces, both regular and reserve. Vaccinations will be administered gradually during troop rotations. These measures reflect the IDF's commitment to the health of its soldiers and the public. Troops have also been instructed to maintain strict personal hygiene. Importantly, vaccination remains voluntary for all personnel."
