In response to the resurgence of the deadly poliovirus in Papua New Guinea (PNG), UNICEF and the Government of PNG have launched a nationwide vaccination blitz to immunise nearly three million children against polio, measles, and other preventable diseases.
Speaking at the launch ceremony at New Erima High School in Port Moresby, UNICEF PNG Representative Dr Veera Mendonca delivered an urgent message to parents and caregivers across the country.
“The goal is urgent and clear: to vaccinate nearly three million children under the age of 10 before the virus can spread further and destroy their futures.”
The campaign, led by the Ministry of Health with support from UNICEF and other partners, will run from the 11th to 26th August across seventeen mainland provinces.
These include Morobe, Madang, West Sepik, East Sepik, the National Capital District, and others identified as high-risk due to low immunisation rates.
“This campaign is about one thing and one thing only; reaching every single child, no matter where they live.”
Health authorities launched the emergency effort after the poliovirus was detected in Lae City in Morobe Province, through surveillance of sewage samples and in three asymptomatic children, strong indicators of community transmission.
PNG, which had previously been certified polio-free, is now confronting a dangerous decline in routine immunisation coverage.
“Technical specialists in immunisation, cold chain, advocacy, and social and behaviour change are working alongside national and provincial authorities to ensure the campaign reaches every child, including those in hard-to-reach areas.”
In addition, UNICEF is providing critical support, including oral polio vaccines, cold chain infrastructure, and technical guidance for planning and delivery.
The campaign also integrates routine vaccinations to protect against other diseases, further strengthening PNG’s public health defences.
“UNICEF is also supporting community engagement activities to raise awareness and encourage parents and caregivers to vaccinate their children.”
Meanwhile, the Government has activated the National Emergency Operations Centre and committed resources to support the rapid rollout in which Dr Mendonca praised the swift and decisive action.
“We commend the Government of PNG for responding with urgency, making the necessary funds available, and showing the leadership needed to protect every child.”
“Polio can take away a child’s future in an instant, but we can stop it. We have the experience, we have the partnerships, and most importantly, we have the will.”
Moreover, she emphasised that the success of the campaign will depend not only on policy and logistics, but on the collective effort of communities nationwide.
“The heart of this battle is not in offices; it is in schools and in communities. It is with mothers, fathers, local leaders, health workers, pastors, teachers, and students.”
With one of the youngest populations in the world, Papua New Guinea faces both a challenge and an opportunity.
“PNG is blessed with one of the youngest populations on earth.”
“To reap the fruits of this demographic dividend, children must grow up healthy.”
While some provinces have shown strong performance in immunisation efforts, others are significantly lagging behind. Dr Mendonca expressed hope that this campaign would mark a turning point.
“Some provinces are already doing reasonably well when it comes to immunisation, but some others are woefully behind. This campaign is going to change that once and for all.”
“This is not just a campaign, let it be a turning point for the children of Papua New Guinea.”
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