Journalists in Taraba State have been urged to step up efforts in countering misinformation and myths surrounding the forthcoming Subnational Immunization Plus Days (SIPDs), scheduled to take place from December 13 to 16, 2025. The exercise aims to strengthen immunity against polio among children aged 0 to 59 months across 19 northern states, including Lagos and Oyo.
During a recent mobilization dialogue in Jalingo, the state capital, the Taraba State Primary Health Care Development Agency and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) emphasized the need for strong media engagement to ensure widespread public awareness. Officials from both organizations confirmed that all necessary arrangements have been finalized to ensure a smooth and successful campaign. The exercise will cover every ward, village, and community across the 16 local government areas and two Special Development Areas in the state.
In addition to the polio vaccine, routine immunizations will also be administered. Sufficient vaccine supplies have been secured, and parents and caregivers are encouraged to make their eligible children available for vaccination. However, children who are ill will not be vaccinated until they fully recover. A two-day mop-up exercise will be conducted after the main campaign to reach children who were not vaccinated initially and to address any cases of non-compliance.
The Taraba State Primary Health Care Development Agency and UNICEF are working together to ensure the success of the SIPDs. The campaign is crucial in preventing the spread of polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases. By vaccinating children aged 0 to 59 months, the exercise aims to protect them from the risks associated with these diseases.
The collaboration between the Taraba State government, UNICEF, and other stakeholders demonstrates a commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of children in the state. The media plays a vital role in promoting public awareness and countering misinformation, and journalists are encouraged to support the campaign by providing accurate and timely information to the public. With sufficient vaccine supplies and a comprehensive plan in place, the SIPDs are expected to be a success, bringing the state one step closer to achieving its goal of strengthening immunity against polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases.
