By Ezekiel David
A focused vaccination campaign in Katsina State is reaching children previously excluded from routine immunisation due to geographical barriers and security concerns.
The initiative, supported by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and partners like the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, aims to interrupt the spread of the circulating Variant Poliovirus type 2 (cVPV2), particularly in remote areas.
Batsari Local Government Area (LGA), where 98% of the state’s 16 cVPV2 cases have been reported this year, has been a key focus.
Fatima Abubakar, a resident of a remote Gadare settlement in Batsari LGA, shared her experience: “Before today, my child never received any form of vaccination.” She explained that distance from healthcare facilities and a lack of awareness about mobile vaccination teams prevented her eight-month-old son from receiving his immunisation.
To address these challenges, Katsina State revised its immunisation strategies, including engaging community gatekeepers. This involved advocacy efforts and the training of local volunteers, identified through traditional leaders, to serve as vaccinators and champions within high-risk communities.
The strategy has proven effective, as evidenced by Fatima’s experience. “I was comfortable presenting my son for vaccination because the vaccinator is someone from my settlement. He educated me of the benefits of immunisation and assured me that it is safe and at no cost,” she stated.
As of June 2024, the local response team in Katsina had vaccinated 253,006 out of the targeted 326,069 children across 11 LGAs.
Interrupting cVPV2 transmission, especially in the Axis of Intractable transmission (AIT) states, including Katsina, is crucial for Nigeria to achieve its polio eradication goals.
Katsina State Governor Dr Dikko Umaru Radda expressed appreciation for WHO’s support, stating, “The State Government will continue to work closely with WHO and partners to sustain the improvements.”
He acknowledged WHO’s critical role, saying, “WHO is playing a critical role in supporting the state in its quest to interrupt the spread of the virus. The continual support received from WHO is very timely and commendable. Despite the challenges, we’ve recorded immense progress in ensuring vulnerable and exposed children are reached with vaccines, thus contributing to interrupting the virus.”
Dr Abdulnasir Adamu, WHO State Coordinator, reaffirmed WHO’s commitment, stating, “WHO’s relentless support to the Government of Katsina is part of the triple billion target and the implementation of its fourth Country Cooperation Strategy (CCSIV), of ensuring health for all regardless of their difference.” He emphasised, “Every child deserves a better future and access to quality healthcare services.”
Dr Adamu highlighted WHO’s technical support in coordinating partners and strengthening data management, community engagement, and surveillance, with over 5,000 technical and community personnel in the state.
(Source: WHO)
