This article discusses Nigeria’s challenges and strategies in combatting poliovirus, particularly circulating variant poliovirus type 2 (cVPV2), highlighting the case of a vulnerable child as a reflection of broader issues. Efforts by the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, the National Emergency Operations Centre, and the WHO include targeted vaccination campaigns and community engagement to improve immunization coverage and combat polio transmission. Future initiatives aim to sustain progress and address ongoing challenges.
In Maiduguri, Borno State, concerns regarding poliovirus vulnerabilities persist, illustrated by the plight of four-year-old Amina from Mairi Ward. Despite repeated immunization attempts, her family’s frequent absence during vaccination campaigns has resulted in missed doses, illustrating Nigeria’s struggles to eliminate poliovirus and other preventable diseases in challenging territories.
Halting the spread of circulating variant poliovirus type 2 (cVPV2) is a key focus for Nigeria. Between January 2024 and early March 2025, the country recorded 122 confirmed cVPV2 cases across 15 states, with 10 cases reported in 2025 alone. The National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) collaborates with the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to implement a Targeted Local Outbreak Response (TLR) strategy, aiming to vaccinate susceptible children in high-risk areas.
A recent four-day vaccination initiative targeted 3.8 million children in seven high-burden states, resulting in over 3.6 million children receiving the novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2). However, the campaign faced setbacks as some children remained unvaccinated due to caregiver noncompliance or their absence during rounds. Dr. Abdulkadir Usman Gana emphasized the need for increased social mobilization and refined strategies to address these challenges, aiming for comprehensive coverage to break the cVPV2 transmission cycle.
The NEOC operations group, led by WHO, is integral to planning and monitoring TLR campaigns through data-driven methods. These methods involve analyzing relevant data, including cVPV2 case trends, population immunity levels, and logistical requirements. Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo commended the TLR approach, highlighting its rapid-response potential and the critical moment to act decisively against cVPV2.
Comprehensive support from WHO has been evident throughout the campaign, which included the training of approximately 18,727 health workers and effective coordination of vaccination teams. Community engagement efforts, as illustrated by local volunteer Zayyanu Adamu, have played a crucial role in educating residents about vaccine importance and addressing noncompliance issues, contributing positively to campaign results.
To assess vaccination coverage accuracy, WHO conducted Lot Quality Assurance Surveys (LQAS), deploying professionals to validate immunization data across various surveys. Results showed that 97% of surveyed local government areas achieved over 90% vaccination rates, demonstrating the campaign’s efficacy.
Looking to the future, Nigeria’s next TLR phase is set to commence on March 12, 2025, targeting 946,600 children across five states. Despite ongoing challenges, the collaboration amongst health agencies and local communities underscores Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding children from poliovirus. With persistent community trust, innovative strategies, and global support, Nigeria is progressing toward a polio-free future.
In summary, Nigeria’s battle against poliovirus, particularly circulating variant poliovirus type 2, highlights the ongoing challenges faced in immunizing children in high-risk communities. Through targeted campaigns and community engagement, the country has made significant strides in vaccination coverage. Nevertheless, continuous efforts are required to address vaccine hesitancy and logistical hurdles, ensuring every child is protected. The outlook remains optimistic with planned future interventions, emphasizing a collective commitment to abolish poliovirus in Nigeria.
Original Source: www.afro.who.int
