Nayala: "A single dose of the typhoid vaccine is enough to protect the child for four years," announced Dr. Arouna Sissao, the Chief Medical Officer of the Toma Health District, during an advocacy session for the upcoming free typhoid fever vaccination campaign. The campaign is scheduled to take place from January 23 to January 29, 2025.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Dr. Sissao explained that typhoid fever is a disease commonly transmitted via the fecal-oral route through contaminated food and water. It is characterized by symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, and bleeding from the nostrils. The disease is often mistaken for influenza or malaria and is highly contagious. Without timely treatment, it can lead to severe complications, including depression.
The vaccination campaign targets children aged 9 months to 14 years, aiming to immunize 112,715 children in Nayala province. Vaccination teams will be deployed across various locations, including health facilities, educational institutions, transport stations, and even at weddings and ceremonies during the campaign period. Additionally, the campaign will include vaccination against cervical cancer (HPV) to reach women who have not yet received this vaccine.
Dr. Sissao emphasized the importance of local authorities' involvement in disseminating information to maximize the campaign's reach. However, he also acknowledged staffing challenges, noting that the Toma CSPS requires 35 vaccinators, but currently has only 18 staff members.
He advocated for the establishment of community health clubs to facilitate communication between residents and health administrators. He highlighted the Sapala Health Club as a successful example of such an initiative.
Mr. Adama Diallo, Secretary General of Nayala Province, who chaired the session, commended the efforts of the health management team and security services in improving provincial health. He urged all participants to mobilize the community to ensure the success of the province's first typhoid fever vaccination campaign.