For POLIO-Free Somalia

Ten Things To Know And Do About Polio

Polio is a cruel enemy of children, a disease that causes permanent paralysis. There is no cure for polio. Immunization is the only defense.
After a six year absence, polio has returned to Somalia. This outbreak is spreading fast. Every un-immunized child is at risk.
To drive out polio, all stakeholders in Somalia are important in insuring that all children are immunized against polio, wherever they live. EVERY CHILD targeted needs to be immunized during EVERY ROUND of campaigns.
Our only weapon against polio is the oral polio vaccine (OPV). It is safe, effective and potent. Administered multiple times, it will protect a child for life: OPV has been declared halal by Islamic leaders worldwide.
Freeing Somalia from polio is a matter of national pride. Polio anywhere is a threat to un-immunized children everywhere. It could easily spread from here to infect our neighbours in the region.
It is our duty to do all we can to protect our children. Polio eradication is for our common future. Somalia is part of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, a worldwide campaign that has cut polio cases by more than 99 per cent since 1988. Our children are relying on us to keep them safe.
Polio is HIGHLY INFECTIOUS. One un-immunized child puts every child at risk.
The polio outbreak proves the need for better routine immunization against childhood diseases. In Somalia, only X per cent of children are routinely immunized – even fewer in poor areas. Our children deserve better.
Everyone has a role to play in bringing this vaccine to children. Families need the facts about polio and the value of immunization. Please talk to your friends and neighbours. Teach children about polio at school. Go out into your community during the polio campaigns to encourage children get immunized. Use the media to educate the public. There are so many ways to help. Use your imagination!

10. The next polio campaign will take place from 26 May – 1 June in Benadir, Puntland and South and Central Regions. Please go out into your community to support the immunization drive.
We have beaten polio before – we can do it again, if we work together.