Sharon Chigeza
MUTARE – The Ministry of Health and Child Care is rolling out the third round of its polio vaccination campaign in Manicaland, a critical initiative aimed at safeguarding children against the persistent outbreaks occurring in neighbouring countries such as Malawi and Mozambique.
These outbreaks pose a significant risk to Zimbabwe, prompting health authorities to take proactive measures.
Immunisation will be taking place from November 26 to 29.
Manicaland Provincial Health Promotions Officer, Agnes Mugumbate said there was an urgent need to roll out the campaigns, which targets all children under the age of nine.
“Our primary objective is to ensure that every child in this age group receives the polio vaccine to protect them from potential outbreaks,” Mugumbate explained.
The campaign will be executed through a door-to-door vaccination programme and at fixed health facilities, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the province.
The door-to-door approach is designed to reach families in remote areas who may have limited access to healthcare services. Health workers will be deployed to visit homes and provide vaccinations, making it easier for parents to immunise their children without travelling long distances. Additionally, fixed health facilities will serve as vaccination points for families seeking to ensure their children are protected.
Concerns have been raised by some parents regarding the number of times a child can receive the polio vaccine and the potential for adverse effects from what they perceive as an overdose.
The first two rounds were conducted in February and March early this year.
Addressing these concerns, Mugumbate reassured the community that the immunisation programme is safe and poses no negative impact on children’s well-being.
“The polio vaccine is vital for protecting our children, especially given the ongoing outbreaks in neighbouring countries. Repeated immunisation is necessary to build and maintain immunity,” she stated.
Mugumbate further explained that the vaccine is designed to be administered multiple times without adverse effects.
“Parents should not worry about overdosing their children. The vaccination programme is thoroughly tested and monitored, ensuring that it is both safe and effective,” she added.
The campaign is expected to have a significant impact, especially as health officials anticipate a fourth round of vaccinations scheduled for January 2025. This continuous effort underscores the Ministry’s commitment to keeping children safe from polio and other preventable diseases.
“We are dedicated to ensuring that our children are protected, and this ongoing vaccination effort is crucial in achieving that goal,” Mugumbate noted.
Polio, a highly infectious viral disease, can lead to paralysis and even death, making vaccination essential for prevention. The recent outbreaks in Malawi and Mozambique have heightened awareness of the disease’s potential resurgence in the region, prompting Zimbabwean health authorities to act swiftly.
The Ministry of Health and Child Care is determined to prevent any outbreaks within its borders by maintaining high vaccination coverage.
Community engagement is a vital component of the campaign, and health officials are encouraging parents to actively participate in the immunisation drive.
“We urge all parents to ensure their children receive the polio vaccine during this campaign. It is a simple yet effective way to protect their health and future,” Mugumbate stated.
As the campaign progresses, the Ministry of Health will monitor the vaccination efforts closely, ensuring that all logistical aspects are functioning smoothly and that health workers are equipped to handle any concerns from the community.
By focusing on comprehensive coverage through door-to-door visits and fixed health facilities, the Ministry of Health and Child Care aims to eliminate the risk of polio outbreaks in the region. With continued support from parents and the community, the initiative promises to bolster the health and well-being of the nation’s youngest citizens.
New Ziana
