Maniema, a province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, recently experienced a polio vaccination campaign which proved to be a success. According to the head doctor of the Extended Vaccination Program (EPI) in Kindu, more than 600,000 children aged 0 to 59 months were vaccinated in just two days. Out of a total of 606,000 children expected, this figure testifies to the significant participation of parents in this public health initiative.
Dr. Walumba Omari, who supervised the vaccination campaign, points out that the results are generally positive. In addition to vaccinating children against polio, the medical team also carried out research to prevent other diseases such as measles and paralysis. In addition, they also took care of children whose vaccination schedule was late.
However, Dr. Walumba Omari also expressed concern over parents who refuse to vaccinate their children on religious grounds or who hesitate without good reason. He points out that these are the children who are at risk of missing vaccinations and being exposed to serious preventable diseases.
He therefore calls on parents to follow the example of those who agree to have their children vaccinated, because vaccination is one of the surest ways to prevent illness in children under five.
This vaccination campaign in Maniema once again demonstrates the importance of sensitizing and educating parents on the importance of vaccination. Combating false beliefs and unjustified hesitations is essential to ensure the health and well-being of children.
Poliomyelitis is a serious disease that can lead to permanent paralysis or even death. Through vaccination, it is possible to eradicate this disease, and campaigns like the one that took place in Maniema are crucial to achieving this goal.
In conclusion, the polio vaccination campaign in Maniema was a success, with more than 600,000 children vaccinated in just two days. However, there is still work to be done to convince parents of the importance of vaccination and to overcome the obstacles that may arise