Has Yemen Initiated a Campaign to Vaccinate 1.3 Million Children Against Polio Resurgence?
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Synopsis
In a bid to combat a resurgence of polio, Yemen's government has launched a significant vaccination campaign targeting 1.35 million children. With ongoing conflict and low immunization rates, this effort is crucial to protect the nation’s youth from the debilitating effects of polio.
Key Takeaways
- Vaccination campaign targets 1.35 million children.
- 7,000 health teams mobilized for the effort.
- 98% of polio cases reported in children under 5.
- Immunization coverage dropped to 46% in 2023.
- Ongoing conflict exacerbates health risks.
Aden, July 13 (NationPress) The internationally recognized government of Yemen has embarked on a three-day polio vaccination initiative aimed at combating the resurgence of this dangerous disease, as reported by local media outlets.
Close to 7,000 health teams will be deployed to administer oral vaccines either at health facilities or through door-to-door efforts, concentrating on 120 high-risk districts, according to Xinhua, citing the state-run Saba news agency.
This campaign is targeting 1.35 million children across 12 provinces under government control. Data from the World Health Organization and UNICEF indicates that since 2021, 282 variant polio cases have emerged in the country, with 98 percent of those cases reported in children under five. Alarmingly, national polio immunization coverage has plummeted to 46 percent in 2023 due to a healthcare system disrupted by war.
“Yemen is at a significant risk for poliovirus outbreaks, exacerbated by ongoing conflict, weakened health services, and low routine immunization rates,” stated Ferima Coulbibaly-Zerbo, Acting WHO Representative in Yemen, during a joint statement with UNICEF.
“The continued circulation of the poliovirus, with cases confirmed as recently as 2025, makes these vaccination campaigns crucial to halt transmission and safeguard all children from the debilitating impacts of polio,” she emphasized.
Peter Hawkins, UNICEF Representative to Yemen, also commented, “With confirmed polio cases among Yemeni children, the threat remains imminent, particularly for those who are unvaccinated. However, through vaccination, we can ensure the safety of our children.”
Since 2014, Yemen has been embroiled in conflict following the Houthi forces' takeover of the capital, Sanaa, and much of the northern region, triggering a Saudi-led coalition's intervention to support the internationally recognized government in 2015.
This ongoing conflict has led to one of the world's gravest humanitarian crises, leaving millions of Yemenis facing food insecurity and lacking essential services. Numerous peace talks have failed to achieve a political resolution.
Point of View
The actions taken by Yemen's government highlight the urgent need to address the public health crisis exacerbated by ongoing conflict. The vaccination campaign represents a critical step in protecting vulnerable children, and it underscores the need for international support to stabilize health services in the region.
NationPress
13/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the goal of Yemen's vaccination campaign?
The goal is to vaccinate 1.35 million children against polio to prevent the disease from spreading further.
How many teams are involved in the vaccination effort?
Nearly 7,000 health teams will participate in the campaign, administering vaccines door-to-door and at health facilities.
What percentage of polio cases reported are in children under 5?
Approximately 98 percent of the reported polio cases are in children under the age of 5.
Why is Yemen at high risk for poliovirus outbreaks?
Yemen is at high risk due to ongoing conflict, weakened healthcare systems, and low immunization coverage.
When was the last confirmed polio case in Yemen?
The last confirmed polio cases were reported as recently as 2025, emphasizing the ongoing threat.
