Zamfara Reports 8 Polio Cases, UNICEF Calls for Action

According to UNICEF, Zamfara State has reported 8 out of 18 cases of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) in Nigeria for the current year. Dr.

Michael Juma, the Chief Field Officer for UNICEF, emphasized the urgency of intensifying efforts to halt polio transmission in the state. The campaign aims to address the issue of zero dose children—those who have not received their first dose of the pentavalent vaccine—by ensuring they receive two drops of oral polio vaccine and a fractional dose of inactivated polio vaccine (IPV).

The integrated approach combines both oral and fractional IPV to enhance vaccination coverage. The campaign, set for April 2026, will target children across all 14 local government areas in Zamfara, with special attention given to communities with high numbers of zero dose children.

UNICEF acknowledged the support from local health workers and traditional and religious leaders in reaching underserved areas.