Somalia launches large-scale polio vaccination campaign

On February 16th local time, with strong support from UNICEF and the Global Polio Elimination Initiative, the Somali government, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), launched a four-day nationwide polio vaccination campaign. This action is of great significance. The plan is to vaccinate 2.5 million children under the age of 5 against poliomyelitis, aiming to fully contain the spread of type 2 poliovirus in Somalia since 2017 and build a solid defense line for children's health.

Polio, also known as poliomyelitis, is an acute infectious disease caused by the poliovirus. Children under the age of 5 have become the main affected group due to their underdeveloped immune system. Once infected, patients may experience symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle pain, vomiting, and in severe cases, paralysis or death. At present, there is no cure for this disease, and vaccination is the most economical and effective way to prevent poliomyelitis.

The large-scale vaccination campaign carried out in Somalia this time is a key measure in its public health sector. Since the spread of type 2 poliovirus in Somalia in 2017, it has posed a huge threat to the health of local children. By vaccinating 2.5 million children under the age of 5, it is expected to partially block the chain of virus transmission, reduce the risk of infection in children, and ensure their healthy growth. This is not only crucial for the health of Somali children, but also contributes to the global prevention and control of poliomyelitis.

Every vaccination campaign is crucial in the global journey to eradicate polio. The operation in Somalia also reflects the close cooperation between international organizations and governments in the field of public health, working together to achieve a polio free world. We look forward to the successful completion of this operation, bringing health and hope to Somali children.