Govt Launches Fourth Round of Polio Vaccination

Rutendo Mazhindu

Zim Now Reporter

Government is stepping up efforts to protect children from polio, with the Ministry of Health and Child Care set to launch the fourth round of its nationwide polio vaccination campaign from February 4 to 7, 2025.

Targeting all children under 10 years, the campaign aims to curb the spread of a circulating poliovirus variant detected in Zimbabwe and neighboring countries.

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Health and Child Care emphasized the critical role of vaccination in eradicating the virus.

"Polio remains a serious threat to our children, and the best way to protect them is through vaccination. We urge all parents and caregivers to ensure their children receive the novel Oral Polio Vaccine (nOPV2), regardless of their previous vaccination status," the Ministry stated.

To maximise coverage, health teams will conduct door-to-door vaccinations and set up immunization points in schools, clinics, markets, churches, bus stations, and other high-traffic areas. Vaccinated children will have their fingers marked to confirm immunisation.

Zimbabwe’s campaign aligns with a regional effort involving six other countries—Burundi, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Zambia as part of broader polio eradication measures.

The Ministry highlighted the need for continued rounds of immunization, citing persistent detection of type 2 polioviruses in environmental samples from Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare, Chitungwiza, and Victoria Falls.

"Our risk analysis shows that immunity levels against type 2 poliovirus remain low, especially among children under 10. Gaps in coverage from previous rounds mean some children were missed, making it crucial that every child is reached this time," the Ministry added.

Polio is a highly contagious viral disease that attacks the nervous system, potentially causing paralysis or even death if it affects breathing muscles. It spreads through contaminated food or water, poor sanitation, and close contact with infected individuals.

With no cure for polio, vaccination remains the primary line of defense. Additional preventive measures include proper sanitation, handwashing with soap, drinking treated water, and maintaining hygiene standards.

"Every child must be vaccinated to prevent the further spread of this dangerous disease. Together, we can eliminate polio and safeguard our children's future," the Ministry urged.

The vaccination campaign is being conducted with support from UNICEF, WHO, and the Global Polio Eradication Initiative as the country continues its fight against the disease.