Gavi Boosts Immunisation Campaign for Zero-Dose Children

The Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation, along with development partners, has intensified grassroots immunisation campaigns in Abuja, specifically targeting zero-dose children in underserved communities. Approximately 100 mothers in Ruga, Abuja, are awaiting immunisation for their children.

The initiative aims to close immunisation gaps by reaching children who have never received routine vaccines, particularly in hard-to-reach areas. Chika Offor from the Vaccine Network for Disease Control described the exercise as a significant step towards eliminating zero-dose children in Nigeria, noting that some children were over 12 months old without receiving their first dose of the pentavalent vaccine.

The intervention includes using KoboCollect to identify zero-dose children and reconcile data with health facility records. Denisa Nguyenova, Grants Manager at Mannion Daniels, praised the organisation of the exercise and community involvement.

Lizzie Towl, Gavi’s Deputy Team Leader, emphasized the importance of vaccinating these children to protect against preventable diseases and urged continued community engagement.