In a pivotal move to safeguard public health, Cabinet Secretary for Health in the government of Kenya, Nakhumicha S Wafula, spearheaded the National Emergency Polio Vaccination Campaign. The health ministry launched the campaign on Thursday, August 24, 2023, in Ruiru Sub-County, Kiambu County.
The Ministry of Health recently took to its social media account to share glimpses of the campaign launch event. They also shared some information. Further, the official sources have expressed their delight at the campaign launch.
Further, The campaign’s inauguration, conducted in collaboration with diverse stakeholders. It also marks a united effort to eliminate the threat of polio and ensure the well-being of our nation’s children. Dignitaries, including the Governor of Kiambu County, WHO and UNICEF Country Representatives, and key health sector stakeholders graced the event.
Polio is a debilitating disease causing paralysis and fatalities. It also poses a significant public health concern. The Cabinet Secretary stressed the campaign’s urgency. She recalled the severe impact of past outbreaks. These include incidents such as the tragic incident in Garissa County in 2013 which left 14 individuals paralyzed and claimed two lives.
The polio vaccination campaign will occur in 3 rounds: Round 1 will target 4 high-risk counties starting with Garissa, Kiambu, neighboring Nairobi, and Kajiado counties. This first round aims to reach over 1.8 million children under 5 years. The 5-day campaign, commencing today, will conclude on Monday, August 28 2023.
Rounds 2 and 3 will be carried out in September and October 2023, targeting over 5.6 million children in these four counties and an additional six: Lamu, Tana River, Wajir, Mandera, Kitui, and Machakos.
Despite progress, recent cases have emerged, emphasizing the need for constant vigilance. The goal is to reach millions of children under 5 through meticulous door-to-door initiatives, ensuring no child remains unvaccinated.
The CS assured the public of the safety and effectiveness of the vaccines used in the campaign, and issued a resounding call to action for parents, guardians, caregivers, and communities to actively participate in this crucial endeavor
