22 Apr 2026

Botswana is set to roll out a nationwide vaccination campaign using the novel oral polio vaccine Type 2 to boost population immunity and prevent potential outbreaks.

According to a press statement from the Ministry of Health, the move follows a recent risk assessment conducted with support from the Global Polio Eradication Initiative.

The assessment was prompted by the detection of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 through environmental surveillance in neighbouring countries, including districts bordering Botswana.

The release says the assessment evaluated the risk of importation of the virus into Botswana, population immunity levels against polio and the performance of national polio surveillance systems.

 “Findings indicate that, due to high cross-border mobility for trade, employment and social activities, coupled with low immunity levels among children, Botswana is at high risk of polio transmission,” the statement said.

The release informs the public that preparations for the vaccination campaign are underway and further details on the rollout and implementation will be communicated by the Ministry of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, which is responsible for coordinating and delivering primary health care services in the country.

The Ministry of Health further urges all stakeholders and members of the public to cooperate fully with upcoming vaccination efforts to safeguard the health and well-being of all children and communities across the country.

It says both the Ministries of Health and Local Government and Traditional Affairs will continue to give updates on this matter. ENDS