Measles, Rubella, and Polio Vaccination Campaign Nears End in Kongo-Central Amidst Parental Concerns

The province of Kongo-Central is nearing the end of a crucial vaccination campaign targeting measles, rubella, and polio, with over 2.3 million children between the ages of six months and 14 years slated to receive immunizations. This initiative, which concludes this Saturday, April 26, has employed a modified approach compared to previous campaigns. While many parents are bringing their children for vaccination, a segment remains hesitant, citing concerns about the number of vaccines administered and the method of delivery.

A significant shift in this campaign is the focus on vaccinating children within school settings, a departure from the traditional home-based or clinic-based approach. This change has sparked reservations among some parents, like Pitchoux Makoko, who expressed frustration over not receiving adequate explanations about the vaccines their children are receiving at school. Makoko stated, 'What we deplore is seeing our children go to school and get vaccinated there. We must have explanations about the vaccines our children are receiving.' This highlights a communication gap and a need for greater parental engagement in the vaccination process.

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Pour la poliomyélite, ce sont les enfants de 0 à 59 mois. Et pour la rubéole et la rougeole, ce sont les enfants de 6 mois à 14 ans. Donc vous comprenez que tous ces enfants, nous ne pouvons plus les retrouver que dans des écoles.

In response to these concerns, Dr. Nestor Tshiteku, head of the provincial health division, reassured the public about the necessity of vaccination for children's well-being. He clarified the age groups targeted for each vaccine: polio for children aged 0-59 months, and measles and rubella for those aged 6 months to 14 years. Dr. Tshiteku explained that schools are the most effective locations to reach these specific age cohorts. To ensure maximum coverage, a two-day 'sweep' period is planned to reach any remaining unvaccinated children across the province. This campaign underscores the ongoing efforts in the Democratic Republic of Congo to combat preventable diseases, while also navigating parental concerns and adapting vaccination strategies to reach vulnerable populations effectively.

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Ce que nous déplorons, c’est de voir que nos enfants vont à l’école et se font vacciner là-bas. Nous devons avoir des explications sur les vaccins que nos enfants reçoivent.