GPEI Extends Polio Eradication Timeline to 2029 Amid Global Conflicts
The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) has postponed its target for eradicating polio to 2029 due to ongoing conflicts affecting vaccination efforts in regions like Gaza, Sudan, and Yemen. With a resurgence of poliovirus in previously eradicated areas, the GPEI is calling for increased financial support to address a $2.4 billion shortfall in its budget. The organization emphasizes the need for collaboration and innovative strategies to overcome logistical challenges and ensure that every child receives life-saving vaccines.
Kenya Launches Urgent Polio Vaccination Campaign Amid Outbreak Concerns
The Ministry of Health in Kenya is launching a crucial five-day Polio vaccination campaign from October 2 to 6, 2024, targeting over 3.8 million children in response to a recent outbreak of Vaccine-Derived Poliovirus Type 2. Parents and caregivers are urged to participate actively in this initiative to enhance community immunity and safeguard the health of children across the nation.
Polio Variant Detected in Gaza Sewage Amid Health Crisis
Recent findings confirm the detection of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV) in Gaza sewage, raising public health concerns. Isolated from samples in Khan Younis and Deir al Balah, the virus is genetically linked to strains previously found in Egypt. While no paralysis cases have been reported, the WHO and local health authorities are enhancing surveillance and immunization efforts amidst a deteriorating healthcare situation in Gaza.
Liberia Concludes Four-Day Polio Vaccination Campaign
Learn about the recent four-day campaign in Liberia to combat the dangerous poliovirus with the Novel Oral Polio Vaccine type-2 (nOPV2). Dr. Clement Lugala Peter, WHO Country Representative to Liberia, emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts in fighting polio and ensuring the well-being of the population. The vaccination campaign aims to protect children from the circulating type-2 poliovirus and extends to neighboring countries in West Africa. Join the efforts to safeguard the health of Liberian children and eradicate the threat of polio.
Zimbabwe Surpasses 4 Million Polio Vaccination Target with nOPV2
Zimbabwe surpasses 4 million target during polio vaccination campaign using novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2). Ministry of Health and Child Care, UNICEF, WHO, BMGF, USCDC, and other partners collaborate to swiftly stop the spread of the poliovirus and prevent future outbreaks. Vaccination teams adopt a two-pronged approach, deploying mobile units and incorporating the Open Data Kit (ODK) for real-time data sharing.
Health Leaders Gather at WHO to Reaffirm Commitment to Eradicating Polio
Health leaders and Ministers of Health at the WHO Executive Board (EB) have gathered at the World Health Organization (WHO) headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, to reaffirm their commitment to eradicating polio and building resilient health systems. The focus is on…