BUSIA: Busia County has launched polio vaccine campaign with the first day having a significant tur out.
The initiative aims to eliminate polio in the region by immunizing children, a critical step in ensuring the country is free from this debilitating disease.
The launch, which was held at Ebenezer Academy Grounds in Busia town, was attended by Busia Deputy Governor Dr. Arthur Odera, who doubles as the County Executive Member for Health.
In his speech, Dr. Odera urged parents to cooperate with health practitioners to ensure the vaccine reaches every eligible child.
“I would like to emphasize that all children under the age of 10 must be vaccinated. The vaccine being administered has been developed specifically for this age group and is deemed safe,” Dr. Odera stated.
County Chief of Health, Wilberforce Lusamba, highlighted the ease with which polio can spread, particularly through poor sanitation.
Mr Lusamba urged parents and caregivers to maintain high levels of cleanliness, especially in toilets and latrines.
“Reports show that polio can spread through contact, especially in dirty environment. Therefore, I urge everyone to maintain cleanliness in toilets and latrines. Alongside this, we must ensure all children are vaccinated, as the vaccine has no side effects,” Lusamba reiterated.
Speaking to Kondele News, County Pediatrician Emmah explained that the vaccination campaign targets over 300,000 children across Busia County.
She stressed the importance of achieving herd immunity, a concept where widespread immunization reduces the likelihood of disease transmission within the population.
“The goal is to immunize as many children as possible. Achieving herd immunity will help us minimize the spread of polio within the community. While Western countries have eradicated polio, with no reported cases since 1954, we are still seeing cases in our region. This is a serious concern,” Emmah noted.
The vaccination campaign in Busia will be conducted in two phases. The first phase, running until October 6, 2024, will be followed by a second phase set to begin next month.
According to the rollout team, led by Juliet Yilima, healthcare workers will go door-to-door, visit schools, offices, and markets to ensure all children are reached.
“We urge all parents to ensure their children are vaccinated in both phases. Our team will be moving from door to door and visiting various public spaces to reach every child. This is the only way we can defeat the polio ‘monster,'” Yilima concluded.
