The Ministry of Health has announced a nationwide polio immunization campaign scheduled for February 21st – 25th, 2025, targeting children under five years old. The campaign will cover Marsabit, Wajir, Garissa, and Mandera, where immunization rates remain low and the risk of transmission is high.
Polio, a crippling viral disease, primarily affects young children and can lead to permanent paralysis or death. According to the Ministry, global eradication efforts have reduced the burden of poliovirus by over 99%. However, outbreaks still occur, particularly in areas with low immunization coverage.
“In October 2024, there was an outbreak of polio in Ethiopia, just 15 kilometers from the Kenyan border in Moyale. Enhanced surveillance indicates that more than 200 unreported cases may exist,” the statement read, highlighting the urgency of the immunization campaign.
The government’s strategy involves administering at least two doses of the oral polio vaccine to children in the most vulnerable age groups, regardless of their previous immunization status. A follow-up vaccination drive is planned for April 2025 to further strengthen immunity among at-risk populations.
The Ministry is also coordinating vaccination efforts with neighboring Ethiopia and Somalia to prevent cross-border transmission. “Synchronization of immunization activities will be done during the campaign due to high movement of communities in the region,” the statement added.
Parents and caregivers are urged to take children within the targeted age groups for vaccination at designated centers. “Receiving multiple doses of polio vaccine will not harm your child but will provide additional immunity against the disease,” Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni Muriuki reassured.
The Ministry also encourages reporting suspected polio cases to the nearest health facility or community health promoter.
“Let us continue working together to address public health challenges and safeguard our communities,” the statement concluded.
