Polio Outbreak Hits Yobe State in Nigeria, Government Launches Response Efforts
A worrying outbreak of polio has been reported in Yobe State, Nigeria, with four new cases confirmed in three local government areas. The outbreak comes three years after the state was declared polio-free, a significant setback in the global effort to eradicate the disease.
Dr. Babagana Kundi-Machina, Executive Secretary of the State Primary Healthcare Board, made the announcement while launching a campaign against the disease in Machina, a border local government area with Niger Republic. He expressed disappointment at the resurgence of the disease, stating that it is unfortunate that after three years of being certified polio-free, the state has recorded a circulating polio virus outbreak in Bursari, Machina, and Yusufari local government areas.
In response to the outbreak, the Yobe State Government, in collaboration with its partners, has launched a state-wide outbreak response and vaccination exercise to address the situation. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also pledged its support to the state, urging the public to adopt preventive measures to curb the spread of the disease.
Dr. Hamisu Alhassan, State Coordinator of the WHO, emphasized the importance of personal and environmental hygiene, hand washing, and immunisation in boosting immunity and promoting good health, particularly among women and children. He called on the public to cooperate with the government by accepting the vaccine.
The Emir of Machina, Alhaji Bashir Machinama, also appealed to his people to cooperate with the government by accepting the vaccine. He thanked the State Government for its prompt response and pledged to sensitise his community to take relevant steps to contain the disease.
The news of the polio outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of continued efforts to combat the disease globally. The international community is urged to support Nigeria and other affected countries in their fight against polio, ensuring that no child is left behind in the pursuit of a polio-free world.
