Tanzania has launched a sub-national polio vaccination campaign in the Lake Zone targeting over 6.7 million children, a ministry of health statement to APA on Tuesday said.
The campaign follows the detection of a circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV) through environmental surveillance.
“This campaign underscores Tanzania’s strong commitment to protecting every child and sustaining its polio-free status, built on resilient health systems, high-performing immunization programs, and decisive government leadership,” the statement said.
Led by the Ministry of Health through the Immunisation and Vaccine Development (IVD) Programme, the campaign aims to rapidly boost immunity among children under ten and interrupt any potential virus transmission across 7 regions namely Mwanza, Geita, Mara, Shinyanga, Tabora, Siminyu and Singida.
“Protecting the health of our children is our highest priority. This campaign demonstrates our commitment to leaving no child behind and ensuring Tanzania remains polio-free for generations to come,” the statement quoted Grace Magembe, Chief Medical Officer, as saying
Tanzania’s response builds on decades of investment in disease surveillance, laboratory capacity, and immunisation delivery.
Following the poliovirus detection, the government immediately activated a coordinated response across national, regional, and district levels.
“These measures reflect the strength of Tanzania’s decentralized health system and its commitment to ensuring no child is missed,” Magembe said.
WHO has supported the campaign through technical guidance, surge staff deployment, laboratory confirmation, strengthening surveillance, and training district teams and independent monitors.
MG/as/APA