Zamfara Embarks on Massive Cholera Vaccination Campaign, Targets 878,000+ Residents

The Zamfara State Government has initiated an oral cholera vaccination campaign, targeting 878,162 individuals aged 1 to 45 years across six Local Government Areas (LGAs) most affected by the recent outbreak. The campaign, launched at the Emir of Bungudu's palace, aims to administer 1,176,671 doses of the oral cholera vaccine.

Collaboration and Support

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nafisa Muhammad Maradun, emphasized that the campaign is being conducted in collaboration with the Federal Government, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and other partners.

Vaccination Strategy

The vaccination drive will cover Gusau, Bungudu, Zurmi, Anka, Talata Mafara, and Shinkafi LGAs, focusing on 20 high-risk wards. Individuals aged 1 to 45 years will be targeted, with the goal of breaking transmission and controlling the outbreak.

Broader Response Plan

Dr. Maradun highlighted that the vaccination campaign is part of a comprehensive response plan, which includes:

  • Activation of the State Infectious Disease Hospital in Damba
  • Provision of essential drugs to all LGAs
  • Enhanced disease surveillance
  • Multisectoral approach through RUWATSAN, focusing on water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions

WHO Commendation

The WHO State Coordinator, Dr. Raji Mukhtar, commended Zamfara State for its timely intervention, noting that suspected cholera cases have been reported across all 14 LGAs, with laboratory confirmation in seven.