Ministry of Health Urges Parents to Prioritize Vaccination in February Campaign
In a critical move to safeguard children against poliomyelitis, the Ministry of Health has launched a mass polio immunization campaign running from February 21 to 25, 2025.
The campaign targets over 800,000 children across Marsabit, Wajir, Garissa, and Mandera counties following a confirmed polio outbreak in Ethiopia, just 15 kilometers from the Kenyan border.
Polio, a highly infectious viral disease, primarily affects children under the age of five, leading to irreversible paralysis or even death.
Symptoms include sudden weakness in limbs without prior injury. With global eradication efforts reducing polio cases by 99% since 1988, recent outbreaks in border regions highlight persistent risks where immunization coverage is low.
Cross-Border Threats Prompt Urgent Action
The October 2024 outbreak in Ethiopia involved a case of type 2 circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV2), signaling potential unreported cases in the region.
To curb transmission, the Ministry conducted an initial vaccination round in December 2024, targeting children under 11 in Marsabit.
The upcoming February campaign expands efforts to neighboring counties, aiming to immunize 176,949 children in Marsabit and 651,252 children under five in Wajir, Garissa, and Mandera.
“Any confirmed polio case suggests the presence of many undetected cases. Immunizing every child in at-risk areas is crucial to stop the virus in its tracks,” the Ministry emphasized.
Synchronization of vaccination activities with Ethiopia and Somalia is underway due to high cross-border movements, ensuring regional protection against the disease.
Two-Round Strategy for Maximum Protection
The February campaign is the first of two rounds planned for 2025.
The second round will occur in April, focusing on delivering at least two doses of oral polio vaccine (OPV) to each child, irrespective of previous vaccination status.
This approach ensures even partially vaccinated children receive boosted immunity.The Ministry reassures parents and caregivers that the polio vaccine is safe and effective.
“Multiple doses pose no harm but strengthen a childโs immunity against polio,” the statement reads.
Parents are encouraged to present all eligible children for vaccination, as protecting every child concurrently halts virus transmission.
Community Vigilance and Reporting Key to Eradication
Public cooperation remains vital in achieving polio eradication.
The Ministry urges parents to ensure children under five are fully immunized per the national schedule.
Any suspected polio cases should be reported immediately to local health facilities or through Ministry hotlines: 719, 0729 471 414, or 0732 353 535.
As Kenya pushes to eliminate polio, coordinated public health measures, timely vaccination, and cross-border partnerships stand central to protecting future generations.
Together, communities can overcome polio and build a healthier, resilient nation.
