World Polio Day: UNICEF’s Role in a Global Fight
Image source: UNICEF
Polio, which was once a major cause of paralysis among children globally, is on the brink of eradication, with a 99% reduction in cases since 1988. UNICEF administers vaccinations to over 400 million children for polio every year, but many still do not receive it due to issues like the COVID-19 pandemic, remote living situations, and misinformation.
The drop in childhood vaccination rates has resulted in outbreaks in countries that were previously polio-free, underscoring the continuous risk until all variants of polio are eliminated. As a vital partner in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), UNICEF concentrates on immunizing children across 190 nations, securing a reliable vaccine supply, and fostering trust among parents.
UNICEF oversees the procurement and distribution of more than 1 billion doses of oral polio vaccines (OPV) annually, representing over 50% of the global supply. We also invest in cold chain systems to ensure the vaccines remain safe during transportation.
In outbreak scenarios, UNICEF spearheads extensive immunization campaigns and addresses misinformation. We collaborate with governments to gain support and guarantee that resources are allocated efficiently.
To boost vaccine acceptance, UNICEF utilizes Social and Behaviour Change (SBC) approaches. Local staff engage with communities, respond to inquiries, and involve civic and religious leaders to advocate for vaccination. This culturally sensitive strategy fosters trust and promotes immunization in underrepresented areas.
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