Health stakeholders have called for stronger collaboration and public participation in ongoing efforts to eradicate polio, emphasizing the importance of targeting vulnerable communities and improving immunisation coverage.
At a recent engagement, officials explained that the current intervention would begin on a smaller scale to measure its effectiveness before expanding. Priority areas have been identified based on high levels of malnutrition, with a particular focus on underserved rural wards.
“We are starting small to assess its effectiveness. The selected LGAs have a high burden of malnutrition, and the focus will be on rural wards where the need is greatest,” she said.
Also speaking at the event, a Health Specialist on Immunisation with UNICEF Kaduna Field Office, Ahmed Tsofo, underscored the serious risks posed by polio, particularly among young children aged zero to 59 months.
He described the disease as highly contagious, capable of causing permanent disability or even death, and stressed that vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent its spread.
“The disease spreads through contaminated food and water, and poor sanitation contributes significantly to its persistence.
“If one child is infected, about 200 others are at risk. That is why it is important that no child is missed during vaccination,” he said.
Tsofo linked the continued presence of the virus to several factors, including gaps in immunisation coverage, poor hygiene practices, open defecation, and environmental contamination.
He called on media organisations to play a more active role in public health advocacy by raising awareness, correcting misinformation, and encouraging caregivers to ensure their children are vaccinated.
“The media should educate the public on the benefits and safety of the vaccine, and also publicise the campaign to ensure maximum participation,” he said.
In a similar vein, media consultant Kalu Idika highlighted the influence of journalists in shaping public opinion and health behaviour. He described the media as a trusted platform for delivering accurate information and countering myths that hinder vaccination efforts.
Idika also noted that media engagement can influence policy direction and urged sustained advocacy to boost immunisation uptake across communities.
Participants at the event collectively stressed the need for coordinated action among stakeholders to ensure that every eligible child is reached during the campaign, reinforcing the broader goal of eliminating polio.
