Kenya and Uganda Unite to Vaccinate 6.5 Million Children Against Polio
In October 2024, Kenya and Uganda conducted a coordinated polio vaccination campaign, immunizing over 6.5 million children. The effort aimed to address the risk of poliovirus transmission in cross-border areas, driven by recent detections of the virus. Through synchronized strategies and cooperation, both countries prioritize protecting their populations and contribute to global health security against polio’s resurgence.
Between October 3 and 6, 2024, a remarkable synchronized polio vaccination campaign took place between Kenya and Uganda, successfully immunizing over 6.5 million children. Initiated with a cooperative launch in Bungoma District in Kenya and Mbale District in Uganda, this operation specifically targeted high-risk cross-border regions. By vaccinating simultaneously and exchanging real-time data, both nations effectively safeguarded children under five in vulnerable areas, significantly mitigating the potential for cross-border virus transmission. The need for this initiative stemmed from recent detections of polioviruses in both countries: six cases identified in Kenya and one through environmental surveillance in Uganda during 2024. This initiative underscores the critical point that children living near international boundaries should not be disadvantaged in their access to immunization. Dr. Daniel Kyabayinze, Director of Public Health in Uganda’s Ministry of Health, emphasized the commitment of local health workers to conduct door-to-door vaccinations and appreciated the support from partners in safeguarding the future against polio. Health authorities have established common strategies that address challenges experienced on both national and regional levels, focusing their efforts across ten bordering districts, encompassing a total stretch of 772 kilometers. Dr. Charles Njuguna, WHO representative in Uganda, highlighted the urgent threat posed by the virus’s rapid spread in East Africa, particularly to children under five years of age. This response necessitated detailed micro planning, including mapping crossings, migratory routes, and transit points to optimize vaccination efforts. The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) Coordinator in Kenya, Charles Korir, endorsed the decision by both governments to undertake synchronized vaccination campaigns in October and again in November, underscoring the importance of collaboration in combating outbreaks driven by mobility among high-risk populations. This initiative reflects a larger strategy supported by WHO and GPEI partners to close gaps in immunization and address the needs of ‘zero-dose’ children who have never been vaccinated. As polio eradication efforts continue globally, the synchronized approach taken by Kenya and Uganda is pivotal to ensure that no transmission pockets remain, particularly in remote or nomadic communities at elevated risk due to their mobility. This cooperation not only protects both populations but also contributes to global health security by preventing the virus from transcending borders. Kenya and Uganda’s joint actions provide a model for regional cooperation, illuminating a path toward a future free from polio.
The synchronized polio vaccination campaigns between Kenya and Uganda represent a proactive response to the increasing threat of poliovirus transmission in Eastern Africa. These campaigns are not merely local events, but rather, they underscore the importance of international collaboration to address health threats. With a focus on immunizing under-fives in high-risk regions, this initiative takes into account the geographic and demographic challenges posed by cross-border movement. As Uganda and Kenya respond to recent virus detections, the initiative reflects an integrated public health strategy to mitigate potential outbreaks, protect vulnerable populations, and contribute to global eradication efforts against polio. Such cross-border initiatives are essential for enhancing vaccine coverage and protecting communities from preventable diseases.
The successful synchronized polio vaccination campaign between Kenya and Uganda, covering over 6.5 million children, stands as a testament to international cooperation in public health endeavors. By focusing on high-risk areas and facilitating real-time communication between both nations, this campaign effectively minimizes the risk of poliovirus transmission across borders. With the collaborative efforts of health authorities, local workers, and international partners, both nations are setting a precedent for future health initiatives aimed at eradicating polio and protecting vulnerable populations.
Original Source: www.afro.who.int
