Kwilu Province Launches Major Vaccination Drive Against Measles, Rubella, and Polio

In the Democratic Republic of Congo's Kwilu province, a vital health initiative is underway, aiming to protect the youngest and most vulnerable from dangerous diseases. The province has launched a comprehensive vaccination campaign targeting measles, rubella, and polio, with a significant number of children set to benefit. This campaign underscores the national and international efforts to combat these illnesses and reduce child mortality.

The scale of the operation is substantial, with plans to vaccinate at least 3,254,655 children between the ages of six months and 14 years against measles and rubella. Simultaneously, the campaign will administer the oral polio vaccine to 1,337,239 children aged 0 to 59 months. The launch event, held in Bandundu city, was attended by provincial authorities who emphasized the importance of community involvement.

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This campaign is an opportunity to protect children against these dangerous diseases and reduce infant mortality. It helps strengthen their health and contributes to the national and international effort to eliminate measles and rubella, as well as eradicate polio.

Kwilu Governor Philippe Akamituna Ndolo issued a strong call to action, urging all segments of the population to actively participate in this crucial vaccination drive. He highlighted that the campaign presents a critical opportunity to safeguard children's health, reduce infant mortality, and contribute to the global goals of eliminating measles and rubella and eradicating polio. The governor specifically appealed to parents, guardians, community leaders, religious figures, and traditional authorities to intensify awareness efforts and ensure widespread mobilization. This collaborative approach, involving both health officials and community leaders, is essential for the campaign's success in reaching every child in the province's 24 health zones and reinforcing the national health infrastructure.

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I encourage and urge parents and guardians to have their children vaccinated during this campaign.