The polio vaccination campaign in the Butembo region of the Democratic Republic of Congo was a great success during its third phase. Indeed, more than one million children were vaccinated, far exceeding the expected number. These encouraging results were announced by Mumbere Luhavo Damulu, focal point of the National Health Promotion Communication Program (PNCPS) within the Provincial Health Division (DPS) of Butembo.
The achievement of 108% of the planned target demonstrates the efficiency and mobilization of the teams involved in this vast public health operation. Compared to the previous phase in June, there was a slight increase in the number of children vaccinated, particularly in urban areas such as Butembo and Beni. The involvement of rural areas, such as the Kamango health zone, which stood out for its excellent results, demonstrates the inclusive scope of the campaign.
However, challenges remain, particularly in the health zones of Manguredjipa and Biena, where performance has fallen short of expectations. The prevailing insecurity in the region has led to a massive displacement of the population to areas considered safer, thus favoring the vaccination of children in urban centers such as Butembo and Beni. This complex reality underlines the importance of adapting health strategies to local contexts.
Furthermore, the region faces another major challenge with the resurgence of monkeypox. Health authorities have recorded several cases in different health zones, highlighting the need to strengthen surveillance and prevention of this disease. The responsiveness of medical teams to this emergency situation demonstrates the capacity of the health system to cope with multiple health crises.
Finally, vaccination against Mpox, another viral disease, has been launched in some targeted areas, particularly in Goma, Karisimbi and Nyiragongo, considered potential outbreak hotspots. This preventive initiative aims to contain the spread of the disease and protect the population against new health crises.
In short, the success of the polio vaccination campaign in Butembo demonstrates the commitment of health actors and the mobilization of the community to ensure the protection of children against infectious diseases. This positive dynamic must be consolidated by reinforced prevention and surveillance measures to ensure the health and well-being of the population in a complex health environment.