UNICEF and WHO Reach 2.8 million children in Sudan with vaccination against polio
First phase completed with nearly 5 million doses of vaccines provided
KHARTOUM, 30 July 2018 - With the support of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the World Health Organization (WHO), the Sudanese Federal Ministry of Health has completed the Sub National Immunization Days from 16 to 18 July 2018.
“This campaign is critical in protecting Sudan’s children from polio: a paralyzing disease. It is a milestone in keeping Sudan polio free” said Abdullah Fadil, UNICEF’s Representative in Sudan.
The three-days-campaign covered 2.8 million children in 10 states with vaccination against polio and vitamin A supplements.
“WHO has supported all campaign implementation process based on bottom up planning and ensured that all children received effective vaccine which will build on children’s immunity and contribute to health security. WHO confirms its commitment to health and wellbeing of people in Sudan” said Dr Naeema Al Gasseer, WHO Representative and Head of Mission in Sudan.
UNICEF and WHO jointly provided nearly 5 million doses of Oral Polio Vaccines (OPV) and operational and technical support to the Government of Sudan including planning, implementation and training of thousands of Sudanese health volunteers. UNICEF and WHO’s teams monitored the implementation on site for quality vaccination reaching children in need.
“UNICEF remains committed to continue working with the government of Sudan and other partners to maintains Sudan’s polio-free status” concluded Fadil.
Notes to Editors:
The second phase of the Sub National Immunization Days (SNIDs) will take place in October to benefit 1.6 million additional children under the age of five years, to eventually reach a total of 4.2 million children.
Around 23,500 health workers are trained to conduct house-to-house visits to reach 4.2 million children in 79 localities in Sudan with the doses of vaccine.
Media Contacts
Juliette Touma Chief of Communication UNICEF Middle East and North Africa Regional Office Tel: + 962-79-867-4628
Email:
jtouma@unicef.org Lina Elkurd Communication Officer UNICEF Middle East and North Africa Regional Office Tel: +962-79-109-6644
Email:
lelkurd@unicef.org