Fatshimetrie, October 7, 2024 – Polio prevention is a major public health issue in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Indeed, Maniema, a province located in the center-east of the country, has recorded 84 cases of polio among the 574 confirmed cases in the DRC since 2021. In order to stem the spread of this virus and prevent new infections, a mass vaccination campaign will be organized from October 10 to 12, 2024 in the 18 health zones of Maniema.
This initiative is supported by renowned partners such as UNICEF and WHO, who provide logistical and financial support for the success of this campaign. The objective is to vaccinate all children aged 0 to 59 months to protect them against polio, a devastating viral disease that can cause permanent after-effects or even death.
Governor Musa Kabankubi Moise has made an urgent appeal to parents to present their children to the teams of vaccinators who will go door-to-door to homes, places of worship, markets, etc. Each child will be administered two drops of the vaccine orally, with the aim of boosting the immunity of the child population and achieving total eradication of poliovirus in the region.
It is crucial that all parents cooperate and vaccinate their children during this campaign, as prevention remains the best cure for this disease. Polio is a vaccine-preventable disease, and only a collective effort can protect the most vulnerable and ensure a healthier future for generations to come.
In conclusion, awareness raising and mobilization of the population are essential for the success of this polio vaccination campaign. By acting together and prioritizing the health of children, Maniema can move towards a polio-free future, where every child can grow up healthy and safe. Vaccination is an act of solidarity and responsibility towards the community, and it is the duty of all of us to contribute to building a better future for all.