Oral Polio Vaccine: Misconceptions, Challenges And The Way Forward For Nigeria

Abstract

Polio vaccine is targeted towards preventing poliomyelitis; a condition characterized by inflammation of the spinal cord and neighboring structures resulting to paralysis of the limbs and organs and possibly becoming handicapped for life. Nigeria is one of the three countries where poliomyelitis is still endemic (WHO, 2009). As part of the immunization schedule in Nigeria towards the fight against the menace, 2 to 3 drops of oral polio vaccines are administered orally at certain intervals to any child within the range of 0-5 years. Challenges which comprises of misconceptions about polio vaccine, political and religion factors coupled with insecurity among others constitute a serious challenge as far as polio eradication in Nigeria is concern. Misinformation and controversy surrounding polio campaign should be squarely addressed through robust public enlightenment campaign. Implementation of communication intervention based on routine monitoring of epidemiological, social and behavioural data on affected population, enacting of workable laws, on polio immunization, availability of functional health facilities coupled with adequate manpower and involvement of community leaders are some of the way forward for Nigeria in eradicating poliomyelitis.