Hela province achieves 98% polio vaccination coverage

The Hela Provincial Health Authority has successfully concluded its Polio Supplementary Immunization Activity [SIA] campaign, achieving an outstanding 98% vaccination coverage across the province. Nearly 79,000 children aged 0 to 10 years received the life-saving vaccine during the two-week exercise, which ended on Friday.

Rocky Wakinda, Coordinator of the SIA program under Hela PHA, said the result was a success in public health, stating that it exceeded the national immunization target of 95%. He commended health workers who braved tough terrain to reach every eligible child, calling their commitment a remarkable accomplishment.

Mr. Wakinda also acknowledged the timely support of the World Health Organization [WHO], particularly Consultant Patrick Nanvo, whose training sessions ensured the campaign was well-coordinated and delivered on schedule.

“To all our health workers, your leadership, seamless coordination, and firm commitment made it possible for Hela to be the first province to launch, execute, and complete this campaign within the designated timeframe. Your efforts have set a benchmark for others to follow,” Mr. Wakinda said.

He announced that the second round of the Polio SIA campaign will begin on September 29, urging all stakeholders to build on the lessons of the first phase and aim for even greater success.

The coordinator further credited the clear leadership of PHA chief executive officer Dr. James Kintwa, the Public Health Directorate, District Health Managers, and the five established SIA teams for ensuring the campaign’s success. He also recognized the vital support of WHO, UNICEF, and the churches, which operate 75% of health facilities in the province.

“Together, we are making a profound impact on the health and future of our children,” Wakinda said.