Poliomyelitis is an increasingly rare disease, but some foci of the infection resist, causing death and permanent paralysis. In an attempt to completely eradicate polio, the World Health Organization (WHO) is launching a massive continent-wide vaccination campaign. 190,000 vaccinators will be mobilized throughout this week in thirteen countries in West and Central Africa to administer the vaccine to all children under five.
Twenty years ago, Nelson Mandela launched a campaign similar in scope. Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, recalls that “at that time, poliomyelitis was endemic in every country on the continent and each year this terrible disease paralyzed more than 75,000 children for the whole rest of their life. Thanks to the dedication of governments, communities, parents and health workers, it is now being fought down to its last reservoir. »
Cover all of Africa
Today, cases are much rarer, with 4 cases of paralysis recorded in 2016 in Africa. But the continent’s insecurity could favor the spread of the virus. With this campaign, the objective is to achieve total eradication to preserve future generations. The personnel are therefore mobilized throughout the territory, in order to also reach the isolated countryside. The organization also believes that the full commitment of political leaders and local officials at all levels is essential for the success of the campaign.
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