This large-scale immunisation drive underscores the state's commitment to bolstering the immunity of its youngest population and safeguarding them against poliomyelitis (polio), a highly infectious viral disease that predominantly affects young children and can lead to irreversible paralysis.
According to reports, the comprehensive immunisation exercise will be carried out across all sixteen local government areas within Kwara State, ensuring broad coverage and accessibility for all eligible children.
Dr. Nusirat Elelu, the Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Primary Health Care Development Agency (KWSPHCDA), highlighted the continued importance of such campaigns. She explained that while Nigeria has been declared free of the wild polio virus, the risk of its re-emergence persists due to ongoing outbreaks in other parts of the world and the presence of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus within the region.
Dr. Elelu further noted that Kwara State is participating in this April immunisation round in conjunction with other states across Nigeria, as coordinated by the National Polio Emergency Operation Centre. The campaign targets all children aged between 0 and 5 years, irrespective of their prior immunisation history. She provided strong reassurance to the public regarding the safety and efficacy of the polio vaccine, emphasizing that it is impossible to administer an overdose.
In her address, Dr. Elelu made a fervent appeal to parents, caregivers, religious leaders, schools, and faith-based organizations to actively support this vital public health endeavor. She urged them to ensure that all eligible children are made available for vaccination during the campaign period.
To facilitate widespread access, dedicated immunisation teams will be deployed to visit homes, markets, religious centers, and schools throughout Kwara State during the designated four-day period. This proactive approach aims to maximize the reach of the immunisation efforts and protect as many children as possible from the debilitating effects of polio.