The Mandera County Department of Health has launched an intensive five-day polio vaccination campaign to boost immunity among children and prevent potential outbreaks of the virus. The initiative, running from February 21 to 25, 2025, aims to vaccinate over 200,000 children under the age of five across the county.
This effort comes amid growing concerns about polio transmission, particularly in regions with high cross-border movements. Mandera, which shares a border with Ethiopia and Somalia, has experienced challenges in containing the spread of infectious diseases due to its strategic location. To mitigate this risk, the vaccination campaign will include house-to-house immunization, market outreach, and health facility visits, ensuring that every eligible child receives the crucial polio vaccine.
To maximize coverage, health officials have deployed trained vaccinators across the county, working in coordination with community health workers and volunteers. The teams are moving from house to house, ensuring that no child is left out. Additionally, vaccination points have been set up in markets, hospitals, and border areas, targeting families who may not be reached through conventional health facilities.
A key feature of this campaign is its cross-border approach, aimed at preventing the transmission of the virus between Kenya and Ethiopia. To enhance regional collaboration, health officials from both countries held a synchronization meeting to align their vaccination efforts. By coordinating their response, they hope to create a strong defense against polio in the border communities.
The County Chief Officer for Public Health, Mukhtar Issack, has urged parents and guardians to take full advantage of this initiative by ensuring their children receive the vaccine.
“I urge all parents to bring their children out for the immunization,” Issack emphasized, reaffirming the county’s commitment to protecting children’s health.
His sentiments were echoed by Mandera East Deputy County Commissioner, Patrick Meso, who emphasized the importance of prioritizing children’s healthcare.
“I call upon every parent and guardian to prioritize their children’s health. It is our responsibility to ensure they receive quality medical care and essential vaccinations,” said Meso.
He further highlighted the government’s commitment to improving healthcare services and encouraged residents to participate actively in available health programs.
Healthcare workers and community mobilizers are at the forefront of this campaign, working tirelessly to ensure every eligible child is vaccinated. Their efforts include:
- Raising awareness about the importance of polio immunization.
- Identifying and reaching underserved populations, particularly in remote areas.
- Encouraging hesitant parents to embrace vaccination as a critical step in preventing polio.
The campaign also involves non-governmental organizations and local leaders, who are playing a key role in spreading awareness and addressing vaccine hesitancy.
Polio is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause paralysis and even death. Although it has been largely eradicated in many parts of the world, some regions remain at risk, particularly in areas with low immunization coverage. The vaccine is the most effective way to prevent polio and protect children from its devastating effects.
By conducting this mass immunization campaign, Mandera County is taking a proactive approach to safeguard future generations from polio. The success of this initiative will depend on community participation and sustained efforts to ensure no child is left behind.
As the campaign progresses, health officials are optimistic that the combined efforts of government agencies, healthcare workers, and local communities will lead to significant progress in the fight against polio.
