Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Daniel D
Published on 2024-03-01 15:10:22
Children in Cameroon, aged zero to five, have started receiving the type-2 polio-derived vaccine to protect themselves against polio, an infectious viral disease that affects the central nervous system and can lead to paralysis.
The initial round of vaccinations is being carried out across the entire National Territory, particularly in areas with a high prevalence of the disease.
According to healthcare professionals, this vaccination campaign differs from the routine vaccinations conducted in the past. Routine vaccinations were intensified in 2023 following a polio virus outbreak in 2022. The current vaccination campaign, which kicked off on Friday, March 1, is expected to continue until March 9, 2024.
In Buea, Southwest Region, health authorities are focusing on vaccinating over 24 thousand children between the ages of zero to five. Health zones have implemented door-to-door and school-to-school strategies to reach a larger number of children. Following this, they plan to target community gatherings and other public places to ensure that every child receives the vaccine.
The vaccination involves administering liquid vaccine into the child’s mouth, with the child’s finger painted black to indicate that they have already received the dose and prevent double dosing. Health officials from the Molyko health coverage unit stated that another round of vaccinations will take place in April after the first round.
It is mandatory for children who have already received routine vaccinations to also receive the type-2 polio-derived vaccine. Health professionals emphasize that the purpose of this vaccine is to strengthen the children’s immune system and provide them with added protection.
One medic in the field stated, “The vaccine is meant to boost the immunity of the children so that they are strong and healthy as they grow.” He also emphasized the importance of maintaining clean surroundings and proper hygiene to prevent the spread of the virus, as it is transmitted through fecal-oral routes. Some side effects mentioned by the doctor include temporary inability to walk until the age of 5.
In addition to the ongoing type-2 polio-derived vaccine campaign, there is also a catch-up routine vaccination program for children who have missed their scheduled vaccinations. Any child found by the vaccination team who has not received routine vaccinations will be vaccinated on the spot.
During the door-to-door visits, some parents expressed satisfaction that their children were being protected from potential diseases through the vaccine. However, there were also parents who were hesitant about the vaccination.
Read the original article(French) on Mimi Mefo Info
