Over 10M children receiving polio vaccination in DR Congo
Over 10M children receiving polio vaccination in DR Congo
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The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) has launched the second phase of a mass polio vaccination campaign targeting over 10 million children, Anadolu Agency reported. From June 26 to 28, newborns to children aged five will be vaccinated in Kinshasa, Tanganyika, Haut-Lomami, Kongo Central, and Haut-Katanga provinces. Additionally, children up to 15 years old in Tshopo and Maniema will also receive vaccinations.
In 2024, DR Congo reported 25 cases of circulating poliovirus types 1 and 2. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted ongoing transmission of polio virus type 2 in several provinces, posing a threat to vulnerable populations. To combat this, 13 million vaccine doses will be administered by 60,000 vaccination teams.
Elisabeth Mukamba, coordinator of the Polio Emergency Operations Committee, emphasized the importance of vaccination to protect children and prevent paralysis. Authorities urged communities to enhance vaccination coverage to eradicate polio. Despite global progress, vaccine-derived poliovirus outbreaks remain a challenge in parts of Africa and the Middle East.
