Uganda's Ministry of Health has commenced the second phase of a comprehensive polio vaccination campaign, targeting 49 districts across the nation. The initiative, which began on November 7, 2024, and will continue until November 10, 2024, aims to protect millions of children from this debilitating disease.
Nationwide Effort to Eradicate Polio
Health workers are conducting door-to-door vaccinations in the Busoga, Bugisu, Bukedi, Teso, Sebei, and Karamoja regions. The campaign focuses on administering two drops of the polio vaccine to each child, providing them with lifelong protection against the virus. The goal is to reach over 8.7 million children aged zero to five years during this phase.
Global Support for Polio Eradication
This nationwide campaign is a critical component of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, receiving support from key international organizations. The World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Rotary International, and other partners are providing resources and expertise to ensure the campaign's success.
Understanding Polio and its Transmission
Polio is a highly infectious disease caused by a virus that primarily affects children under the age of five. The virus spreads through the fecal-oral route and via aerosol droplets, making it essential to implement widespread vaccination programs to prevent outbreaks and protect vulnerable populations.
