The Volta Region Health Directorate has launched an intensive polio vaccination campaign to combat the resurgence of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2).

This initiative underscores Ghana's commitment to eradicating polio and safeguarding children's health, with officials highlighting its urgency due to a confirmed cVDPV2 case linked to an imported strain from Algeria.

The Deputy Director of Public Health, Dr Senanu Kwesi Djokoto, emphasised the need for collective action to break the transmission cycle of cVDPV2.

“This campaign is not just a health initiative; it is a national responsibility. Together, let us prioritise the health of our children and take one step closer to a polio-free Ghana,” he stated.

On September 6, 2024, the Ghana Health Service confirmed a cVDPV2 case at the Koforidua Environmental Surveillance site.

This highlights vulnerabilities posed by low immunisation rates and poor sanitation. Since 2019, Ghana has recorded several cVDPV2 cases, further emphasizing the need for robust immunization efforts.

Campaign Details

Target Group: Children under five years old.
Vaccine: Novel Oral Polio Vaccine type 2 (nOPV2), designed for enhanced genetic stability and effectiveness against outbreaks.
Implementation Strategy:
Round 1: October 17–20, 2024.
Round 2: November 21–24, 2024.
Methods: House-to-house vaccinations, supplemented by fixed sites in schools, creches, and community centers.

Objectives

Raise Immunity: Halting the spread of cVDPV2 through heightened population immunity.
Enhance Surveillance: Strengthening polio disease monitoring nationwide.
Prevent Future Outbreaks: Leaving no child unvaccinated to reduce vulnerabilities.

Expanded Programme on Immunisation Coordinator for the Volta Region, Emmanuel Binsu, urged stakeholders to ensure the campaign’s success.

"Parents must make their children available for vaccination. This effort is critical to securing a polio-free future," he noted.

As part of Ghana's broader Polio Endgame Strategy, a second dose of the Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV) is being introduced into the routine immunisation schedule.

This measure will significantly enhance immunity against all poliovirus types, complementing efforts to phase out Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) and achieve global eradication

Cholera Outbreak: Public Health on High Alert

While tackling polio, Ghana is also battling a cholera outbreak. As of November 14, 2024, the Ghana Health Service reported:

New Suspected Cases: 208.
Cumulative Cases: 1,726 (131 confirmed).
Cumulative Deaths: 16.
Regions Affected: Greater Accra, Central, Western, and Eastern.
Interventions to Contain Cholera

Dr Djokoto outlined robust measures to manage the outbreak:

Emergency Coordination: Rapid response teams, resource mobilization, and operational committees at all administrative levels.
Enhanced Surveillance: Contact tracing and intensified monitoring across districts.
Case Management: Establishing treatment centers, oral rehydration points, and training healthcare personnel.
Community Engagement: Distributing educational materials and engaging stakeholders via schools, media, and forums.
Sanitation and Hygiene: Promoting proper hygiene, disinfecting affected areas, and monitoring food vendors.

Preventive Measures for Cholera

Hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap and clean water.
Safe Drinking Water: Boil or treat water before drinking.
Food Safety: Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and ensure food is well-cooked.
Sanitation: Dispose of waste appropriately and avoid open defecation.

Dr. Djokoto called on communities to take an active role in prevention.

“We need the collective effort of every individual, community, and stakeholder to prevent further spread of cholera.”

During a risk communication session chaired by the youth Queen of Ho Ahoe, Nama Kuma ii urged all stakeholders to support the vaccination campaign and cholera containment efforts.

Collaboration with parents, community leaders, educators, and healthcare workers was highlighted as critical to achieving campaign objectives.

Ghana's dual battle against polio and cholera demands unwavering national commitment. While the polio vaccination campaign aims to secure a healthier future for children, cholera containment efforts stress the importance of collective vigilance.

Together, these initiatives reflect a robust public health response to protect lives and prevent disease outbreaks.