Training sessions for the Polio Outbreak Response Supplementary Immunisation Activities (SIAs) have been conducted across mainland provinces of Papua New Guinea, in preparation for the nationwide polio vaccination campaign.
Led by Provincial Health Authorities (PHAs) in collaboration with the National Department of Health, the World Health Organisation (WHO), and UNICEF, the training will equip health workers with the skills and knowledge needed to carry out the upcoming campaign effectively.
WHO consultants were deployed to all mainland provinces to provide technical support and help ensure strong planning and implementation of the SIAs.
Round 1 of the campaign is scheduled to run for 12 consecutive working days, from August 11 to August 18, across 17 mainland provinces: Morobe, Madang, West Sepik, East Sepik, National Capital District, Central, Gulf, Northern, Western, Milne Bay, Hela, Enga, Western Highlands, Southern Highlands, Chimbu, Jiwaka, and Eastern Highlands. The campaign aims to vaccinate over 2.5 million children under 10 years of age.
In addition to the polio vaccine, vaccinators are also delivering routine immunisations to strengthen protection against other vaccine-preventable diseases.
Meanwhile, the New Guinea Islands provinces continue their integrated polio outbreak response and routine immunization programmes. They are expected to join the nationwide campaign in Round 2, beginning in September.
WHO and its partners reaffirm their full support for the Government of Papua New Guinea and Provincial Health Authorities in their commitment to achieving high immunisation coverage and protecting children from polio and other preventable diseases.