Dr. Ubah Farah, a fervent advocate for UNICEF Somalia, underscored the profound impact of this national endeavor to eliminate polio. “This initiative is a lifeline for vaccinating children against polio,” Farah expressed. She emphasized that such initiatives are pivotal in public health, aiming to wipe out the poliovirus and stymie its spread.
The campaign kicked off in central and southern Somalia, with plans to gradually include the semiautonomous state of Northeastern State and the self-declared region of Somaliland.
Farah pointed out that the triumph of these campaigns hinges on the active participation of communities and the relentless commitment of healthcare professionals, who often face daunting hurdles to reach every child.
“The united battle against polio signifies a robust pledge to safeguarding our future generations’ health,” Farah remarked. She also brought attention to the formation of the Somalia Immunization and Polio Eradication Task Force (SIPE), reflecting the nation’s resolve in immunization and polio eradication.
The Somalia Polio Eradication Action Plan III, backed by the government and Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) partners, details a thorough approach to bolster population immunity and streamline coordination among stakeholders.
Somalia has successfully kept wild poliovirus at bay since 2014. Nonetheless, two outbreaks of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV) since December 2017 have resulted in 19 children paralyzed.
Southcentral Somalia, labeled as one of seven “consequential geographies” by the Global Polio Eradication Programme, continues to grapple with challenges in controlling polio outbreaks. These difficulties arise from overpopulation, shaky health systems, and ongoing conflicts.
