In a bold push to protect children from the resurgence of polio, the Kano State Government has launched a state-wide vaccination campaign targeting 3.9 million children under the age of five across all 44 local government areas.
The exercise, backed by UNICEF, kicks off with site-based vaccinations in 11 high-risk LGAs and will transition into an intensive house-to-house campaign scheduled from June 14 to 18. The initiative is part of a broader effort to close immunization gaps that have raised serious public health concerns.
Health officials sounded the alarm over the recent detection of circulating poliovirus variants in some communities, warning that complacency could undo years of progress in eradicating the disease. “We must act swiftly and comprehensively. Every child left unvaccinated is a potential carrier and victim,” said a senior health official during the campaign’s launch.
UNICEF representatives emphasized the importance of continuous government support, community engagement, and media advocacy to counteract misinformation and vaccine hesitancy. “We urge parents, religious leaders, and the media to work with us to protect our children. The polio virus thrives where trust in vaccines falters,” a UNICEF spokesperson added.
The campaign is a renewed call to action to ensure that no child in Kano is left behind in the fight against polio.
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