Staff Reporter
THE Ministry of Health and Social Services is appealing to parents, guardians and caregivers to ensure that all children under the age of 10 are vaccinated during the second round of the national polio immunisation campaign scheduled for 24 to 27 February 2026. The call follows the detection of poliovirus type 2 in routine sewage surveillance in Rundu late last year, although no cases of illness have been reported.
Paediatrician Dr Steffen Bau said Namibia has remained polio-free since 2006, but the detection of type 2 poliovirus in November 2025 in Ndama, Rundu, in the Kavango East Region highlights the need for continued vigilance.
He reassured the public that no children are currently ill but stressed that vaccination is essential to prevent possible outbreaks. The first round of the campaign, held in January, was described as successful.
The upcoming second round will target all children under 10 years old. Health officials emphasised that the polio vaccine is safe, free of charge and administered orally as painless drops.
Parents are urged to ensure their children receive the vaccine, even if they are fully immunised, previously received polio drops or missed the first round. Additional doses are necessary to strengthen immunity and ensure full protection.
Vaccinations will be available at health facilities, designated vaccination sites, schools and through community outreach teams.
The Ministry said the campaign is being conducted with support from the World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF and other partners, as part of efforts to keep Namibia polio-free.
Photo: Ministry of Health and Social Services-Namibia
