In the city of Butembo, Democratic Republic of Congo, a polio vaccination campaign was recently successfully conducted. According to the latest figures released during a press briefing by the focal point of the National Health Promotion Communication Program (PNCPS), Damaz Luhavo, a total of 973,021 children aged 0 to 59 months were vaccinated during this fourth phase of the campaign.
These figures are encouraging, as they exceed the initial target of 946,211 children to be vaccinated. This success is explained by a vaccination rate of 103%, even surpassing the rate of 108% achieved during the previous campaign last October. These results demonstrate a strong commitment from the community and local health authorities to fight polio, a potentially fatal disease that mainly affects children.
However, despite this success, challenges were encountered during the campaign. Of the 842,286 children counted, some could not be reached due to various factors, including population mobility due to insecurity in some health zones. In addition, a few cases of acute flaccid paralysis were reported, highlighting the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of this disease.
The performance of some health zones in Butembo was particularly remarkable, with vaccination rates exceeding 100%. However, other zones encountered difficulties, particularly due to security and accessibility constraints. These disparities highlight the need to strengthen awareness and vaccination efforts in the most vulnerable areas.
In addition to the fight against polio, the region faces another threat: monkeypox disease, also known as Mpox. With 28 confirmed cases and one death, this disease represents an additional challenge for health authorities. Steps have been taken to vaccinate confirmed cases and their contacts in priority health zones, but vigilance remains necessary to prevent the wider spread of the disease.
In conclusion, the polio vaccination campaign in Butembo was a success, but challenges remain. Maintaining community mobilization and strengthening public health actions are essential to protect the population against infectious diseases. The health of our children and our community depends on our ability to act collectively to prevent disease and promote well-being for all.