Katsina State has made significant strides in combating the circulating variant polio virus, recording only two cases in 2025. This marks a substantial decline from the 17 cases reported across eight local government areas of the state in 2024, an achievement hailed as remarkable progress by Rahama Rihood Muhammed, UNICEF Chief Kano Field Officer. Despite this success, Muhammed emphasized that the ultimate goal remains the complete elimination of the virus from the state.

In a proactive move to eradicate the disease, Katsina State is preparing to launch a large-scale integrated vaccination exercise. This campaign, scheduled from October 4 to 13, 2025, will combine polio and measles-rubella immunizations. UNICEF has allocated over 3.6 million doses of the novel oral polio vaccine (NOPV2) to reach an estimated 2.3 million children under the age of five. Concurrently, 4.8 million children aged between 9 and 14 years will receive immunization against measles and rubella.

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The extensive effort will involve a robust deployment of personnel and resources. A total of 2,253 vaccination teams will be positioned across various fixed and temporary posts. Additionally, 5,584 routine immunization teams will be mobilized, with 3,761 teams conducting house-to-house vaccinations, 993 covering transit points, and 830 operating from fixed sites. These teams will be active between October 4 and 8, ensuring comprehensive coverage and that no child is left unimmunized.

To bolster the campaign's effectiveness, UNICEF has invested in extensive training. Approximately 3,300 health workers have received training in enhanced communication skills. Furthermore, 600 members have been prepared for non-compliance resolution teams, tasked with addressing vaccine hesitancy in real-time. During the campaign period, 200 special teams, comprising community leaders, traditional leaders, and vaccinators, will also be on standby to support the initiative. Muhammed concluded by urging the Katsina State government and all relevant stakeholders to dedicate sufficient resources and support to the campaign, aiming to achieve a zero-case status for the virus.