In a bid to curb the spread of circulating Variant Poliovirus type 2 (cVPV2), the World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and other partners, has intensified vaccination efforts in Katsina State, particularly targeting hard-to-reach areas.
The campaign focuses on Batsari Local Government Area (LGA), where 98% of the state’s cVPV2 cases have been reported this year. Children in remote communities like Gadare settlement, previously excluded from routine immunisation due to geographical challenges and security concerns, are now receiving critical vaccines.
Fatima Abubakar, a resident of Gadare, shared her relief as her eight-month-old son received his first vaccination. “Before today, my child never received any form of vaccination,” she explained, citing the distance from healthcare facilities and lack of awareness as major barriers. The introduction of local vaccinators, identified and trained through traditional leaders, has helped bridge these gaps. Fatima added, “I was comfortable presenting my son for vaccination because the vaccinator is someone from my settlement. He educated me on the benefits of immunisation and assured me that it is safe and at no cost.”
As of June 2024, the campaign had vaccinated 253,006 children out of a targeted 326,069 across 11 LGAs in Katsina. The initiative is crucial for Nigeria’s goal of polio eradication, especially in regions like Katsina, which are part of the Axis of Intractable Transmission (AIT) states.
Katsina State Governor, Dr. Dikko Umaru Radda, praised WHO’s efforts, stating, “The State Government will continue to work closely with WHO and partners to sustain the improvements.” He acknowledged the significant progress made in reaching vulnerable children despite challenges, attribut
