Syrian children have the right to be vaccinated against polioDamascus,13 January 2014 – The representatives of the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in Syria strongly condemn the interruption of a polio immunization campaign in Al-Raqa Syrian governorate due to the intense fighting among groups.

WHO and UNICEF are helping to ensure that every child in Syria is being vaccinated whoever they are and wherever they live.

Polio is a serious risk to children in Syria and the Region. It causes permanent disability and all children have the right to be protected against this disease.

The fighting did not only interrupt the polio immunization campaign, but is also increasing the suffering of the Syrian people, especially women and children.

We call on all parties to cease fighting immediately and permit completion of the life-saving polio campaign and delivery of other life-saving humanitarian interventions.