22,000 Children in Bauchi State Miss Routine Immunization, Fueling Polio Outbreaks

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has sounded the alarm over the growing number of children missing routine immunization in Bauchi State, Nigeria. According to UNICEF, approximately 22,000 children in the state have not received their scheduled vaccinations, contributing to the ongoing outbreaks of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV). As of 2024, Bauchi has recorded four cases of cVDPV2, out of 73 cases nationwide.

Nuzhat Rafique, Chief of UNICEF’s Bauchi Field Office, highlighted the issue during a road walk held on World Polio Day. She emphasized that eradicating deaths and disabilities caused by polio is achievable if stakeholders maintain their commitment to ending polio outbreaks. Rafique stressed that every child in every household must be vaccinated to fully eradicate polio.

However, the reality on the ground is concerning. Many children are still missing out on vaccinations, and the global decline in childhood immunization rates has led to a resurgence of polio outbreaks, even in countries that have been polio-free for decades. "The fight against polio is particularly challenging in the most difficult environments, but eradication is within reach," Rafique said. "UNICEF delivers over one billion doses of polio vaccines annually, making it the largest contributor to global vaccine supply."

Rafique called on the government to prioritize polio vaccinations, particularly in hard-to-reach areas and communities with low immunization rates. She urged the authorities to "strengthen immunization systems to ensure that every child receives life-saving vaccines" and to allocate necessary resources to address outbreaks and ensure children are vaccinated. Additionally, she emphasized the need to keep polio eradication high on the political agenda while adopting innovative solutions to improve the quality of immunization campaigns.

The Bauchi Emirate Council also has a crucial role to play in mobilizing parents and caregivers to ensure their children are vaccinated. Rafique appealed to the council to address cases of non-compliance during and after vaccination campaigns. By working together, it is possible to eradicate polio and ensure that every child has access to life-saving vaccines.

The situation in Bauchi State serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in the global fight against polio. However, with concerted efforts from governments, healthcare workers, and local communities, it is possible to create a polio-free world for future generations.