Katsina State has reported two cases of circulating vaccine-derived polio virus (cVDPV2) in 2025, a significant decline from the 17 cases recorded across eight local government areas in 2024.
UNICEF Chief Kano Field Officer, Rahama Rihood Muhammed, announced the figures during a media dialogue and mobilisation ahead of the October 2025 integrated Polio Vaccination Campaign. He described the reduction as remarkable progress but stressed that the fight against polio must continue until complete eradication.
The upcoming campaign, scheduled for October 4–13, will integrate polio and measles-rubella immunizations. Over 3.6 million doses of the novel oral polio vaccine (NOPV2) will be administered to reach 2.3 million children under five, while 4.8 million children aged 9–14 will be immunized against measles and rubella.
Muhammed detailed that 2,253 vaccination teams will operate across fixed and temporary posts. Additionally, 5,584 routine immunization teams—including 3,761 going house-to-house, 993 covering transit points, and 830 at fixed sites—will work between October 4 and 8 to ensure comprehensive coverage.
He highlighted UNICEF’s training of 3,300 health workers in enhanced communication skills and preparation of 600 non-compliance resolution team members to address vaccine hesitancy in real time. Furthermore, 200 special teams composed of community leaders, traditional leaders, and vaccinators will be on standby during the campaign period.
Muhammed called on the state government and other stakeholders to mobilize sufficient resources and support for the campaign, emphasizing the goal of achieving zero polio cases in Katsina State.
