The national polio vaccination campaign in Angola was officially launched in the municipality of Belas, aiming to protect over 9 million children under the age of five across the country. The campaign, running from March 26 to 28, 2026, deploys vaccination teams nationwide with the objective of interrupting polio transmission.
Polio is a highly infectious disease that can cause permanent paralysis, primarily affecting young children. Despite significant progress, the virus continues to circulate in certain regions of Angola and in neighboring countries like Namibia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, maintaining the risk of new cases.
Health authorities emphasized the importance of a rapid and coordinated response during the launch. The Secretary of State for Public Health, Dr Carlos Alberto Pinto de Sousa, highlighted the need for collective action to address the current situation effectively.
The World Health Organization commended Angola’s ongoing efforts to control polio. Dr Indrajit Hazarika, WHO Representative in Angola, noted that sustained commitment could allow the country to interrupt transmission and protect every child.
The campaign engages national and local authorities, health professionals, development partners, and communities to ensure comprehensive coverage. Over three days, vaccination teams conduct door-to-door visits and operate fixed sites to deliver the oral polio vaccine to all eligible children.
WHO, together with UNICEF and partners of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, supports the Angolan government in enhancing epidemiological surveillance, expanding vaccination access, and mobilizing communities.
Eliminating polio in Angola is achievable with collective commitment, and protecting every child is crucial to securing the country’s future.
