Sub-National Immunization Days: Cameroon steps up efforts to protect every child against polio

Maroua, April 23, 2026 – The Government of Cameroon, with the support of UNICEF and its partners, is launching a new round of Sub-National Immunisation Days (SNIDs) against polio from 23 to 26 April 2026 in six regions of the country: Far North, North, Adamawa, East, Littoral and Centre.

This campaign aims to strengthen collective immunity among children aged 0 to 59 months against circulating variant polioviruses through the administration of the novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2), while consolidating routine immunisation gains. More than 6 million children, including those living in highly mobile contexts, refugees, internally displaced persons and nomadic communities, are targeted.

“Polio is a serious and disabling disease, but it is entirely preventable through vaccination. Through these Sub-National Immunisation Days, our goal is clear: to reach every child, wherever they may be, and definitively stop transmission. In regions such as the Far North, where challenges are many, the commitment of communities, frontline community health workers who demonstrate unwavering dedication, local authorities, and young U‑Reporters is essential. Protecting every child against polio means protecting the future of Cameroon,” said Nadine Perrault, UNICEF Representative in Cameroon.

The Far North: a public health priority

Among the targeted regions, the Far North remains an area of heightened vigilance due to its borders with Nigeria and Chad, intense cross-border population movements, and ongoing humanitarian challenges. Nevertheless, previous campaigns have recorded encouraging results, demonstrating that strong community mobilisation can reach the most exposed children.

In this region, vaccination teams, supported by local health authorities and partners, are deploying tailored strategies, including door‑to‑door activities, fixed vaccination posts and temporary sites, to ensure that every child receives the two drops of vaccine that can save their life.

Young U‑Reporters and community health workers: agents of change at the heart of communities

At the heart of the national mobilisation, young U‑Reporters and community health workers play a critical role. While U‑Reporters raise awareness among families, combat misinformation and promote vaccine acceptance through community dialogue and social media, community health workers, on the frontline, ensure close engagement with households and reach the most vulnerable children. Their combined efforts strengthen community trust and improve the effectiveness of vaccination campaigns. “When messages come from young people within the community and are relayed by trusted local actors, they are better understood and more readily accepted,” noted a regional health official.

One more step towards polio eradication

Cameroon has not recorded any new cases of circulating variant poliovirus since April 2025, marking significant progress towards polio eradication. However, risks remain in a regional context still affected by outbreaks in some neighbouring countries. For this reason, vaccination campaigns are conducted in a synchronised manner with countries in the Lake Chad Basin, ensuring a collective and coordinated response to sustainably interrupt virus transmission.

Operationally, the strategy prioritises door‑to‑door vaccination, complemented by fixed vaccination points in health facilities, markets, bus stations, schools, places of worship, traditional leader residences and other gathering sites. A second round is already planned for May 2026 to consolidate gains and further strengthen children’s protection.

UNICEF Cameroon plays a central role in the technical and operational coordination of the campaign, including the deployment of social mobilizers, vaccine supply, cold chain management, and supervision.

UNICEF reaffirms its commitment to supporting the Government of Cameroon to ensure that every child, wherever they live, has access to safe and effective vaccines, a fundamental condition for building a healthier, polio‑free future. Vaccination is free, safe and essential. No child should be left behind.