The White Nile state Ministry of Health and Social Development has completed preparations for a nationwide polio vaccination campaign. The campaign, scheduled for October 26-29, aims to immunize approximately 665,000 children across the state. The initiative is part of a broader effort to combat the spread of polio and protect vulnerable populations. According to Dr. Al-Zein Saad Adam, the acting minister of health, the campaign will be implemented through 850 field teams and 184 supervisors.

Dr. Al-Zein Saad Adam emphasized the importance of media involvement in raising awareness about the risks of polio and encouraging families to vaccinate their children. He highlighted the completion of technical and administrative arrangements, including the deployment of field teams and supervisors. The minister expressed appreciation for the efforts of specialized departments and campaign supervisors, urging mothers and families to cooperate with field teams to ensure the success of the campaign.

The vaccination campaign will cover two localities, Al-Jabalayn and Al-Salam, and will be conducted through routine immunization centers and door-to-door vaccination strategies. Dr. Abdulwahab Hamad Rajal, director of the Basic Health Care Administration, stressed the effectiveness and safety of the vaccine. He noted that efforts have been made to train working cadres and prepare them to implement campaign activities according to set plans.

A second vaccination campaign is planned for November, as part of ongoing efforts to respond to the polio outbreak. According to Mr. Al-Maz Mahmoud Al-Maz, director of the Expanded Immunization Administration, the campaign aims to eliminate polio and protect children's health. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between official and popular efforts, as well as the role of organizations, in combating the disease.

The Ministry of Health has implemented awareness programs to encourage families to vaccinate their children. Ms. Dawla Omar, director of the Health Promotion Administration, outlined the department's efforts to support the campaign, including training field teams, broadcasting awareness messages, and engaging community leaders. She appealed to families to prioritize vaccination during the campaign period and cooperate with field teams.

The campaign is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Health, the General Administration for Health Care, the Expanded Immunization Program, and UNICEF. The initiative seeks to raise awareness about polio risks and promote vaccination among targeted populations. By engaging local communities and stakeholders, the campaign aims to achieve high vaccination coverage and protect children from the disease.

The White Nile state government's efforts to combat polio reflect a broader commitment to improving healthcare outcomes and protecting vulnerable populations. The vaccination campaign is a critical component of this effort, and its success will depend on the cooperation of families, communities, and stakeholders. Key aspects of the campaign include its reach, targeting 665,000 children, and its implementation strategy, involving 850 field teams and door-to-door vaccination.

Key points

  • White Nile state launches polio vaccination campaign targeting 665,000 children.
  • Campaign aims to eliminate polio through immunization and awareness efforts.
  • Second vaccination campaign planned for November as part of ongoing polio response efforts.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.