Islamic Relief USA (IRUSA), a nonprofit humanitarian and advocacy organization, issued the following statement regarding the possibility of a polio outbreak in Gaza.
“The recent confirmation of polio in Gaza is yet another, and the latest, reminder of why a permanent ceasefire must be put in place immediately. This is a direct result of the destruction of water and sanitation infrastructure, and the inability to make repairs because of the ongoing escalation. Coupled with overcrowding, displacement, and a crumbling healthcare system, these actions have created an environment ripe for the spread of polio.
“Hundreds of thousands of children need to be vaccinated to prevent polio’s deleterious effects. A ceasefire will enable refrigerated trucks to safely transport vaccines and get it to the most vulnerable populations before it is too late. This looming public health disaster can be averted if we act now.”
MEDIA CONTACT
Syed M. Hassan
mhassan@irusa.org or
(571) 421-7032 (CELL)
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Islamic Relief USA, based in Alexandria, Va., is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) humanitarian organization. Its mission is to provide relief and development in a dignified manner regardless of gender, race, or religion, and works to empower individuals in their communities and give them a voice in the world. Its programs benefit millions of people each year in more than 40 countries around the world, including in the United States.
Islamic Relief USA is on the U.S. government’s Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) charity list, and it is also a signatory to the code of conduct of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.