Mohamed Abdi

Jigjiga, SRS – The Health Bureau of the Somali Regional State (SRS) has announced the commencement of a large-scale polio vaccination campaign, scheduled to run from June 14 to June 17, 2017, according to the Ethiopian calendar. This vaccination drive will be carried out across the entire region to prevent the spread of polio.

The Deputy Minister of the SRS Health Bureau, Xaawo Saleeban, stated that in 2024, a total of 183 polio cases were recorded globally across 16 countries. Ethiopia is among the affected countries, reporting 39 cases from 10 regional states, including the Somali Regional State. Xaawo Saleeban noted that three polio cases were identified in the Mooyaake, Galafe, and Jarate areas.

The vaccination campaign aims to immunize over 1.4 million children under the age of five. The Deputy Minister urged parents to bring their children to vaccination centers to benefit from this crucial health initiative.

“Since the importance of the vaccine and its safety are well-known, I urge all parents to ensure their children under the age of five receive this vital vaccination,” said Xaawo Saleeban.

It is expected that this vaccination campaign will play a significant role in reducing and preventing the spread of polio in the region. The SRS Health Bureau also plans to conduct additional awareness programs to educate the public on the importance of vaccination.