The Ministry of Health has confirmed the deaths of two children linked to a reaction from the polio vaccine administered in October, raising concerns among parents across the country. Health Director General Dr. Patrick Amoth confirmed that these cases are part of 23 reported reactions from the recent polio vaccine campaign.
Dr. Amoth explained that among the 23 cases, most were mild. Sixteen cases involved symptoms like rashes, fever, or abdominal discomfort. However, seven cases turned out to be severe, with symptoms including fever, convulsions, and weakness in the limbs. Of these, five children remain under observation as a precaution.
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Breakdown of Polio Vaccine Reaction Cases
Health officials investigated all 23 cases of polio vaccine reaction to determine the causes. According to Dr. Amoth, only four cases showed a direct connection to the polio vaccine itself. In contrast, the remaining 18 were coincidental, with most attributed to other health factors or pre-existing conditions.
Out of the seven severe cases, most symptoms ranged from body-wide red and itchy skin bumps to muscle weakness and even convulsions. “Symptoms timing and prior health issues are usually decisive factors,” said Dr. Amoth, explaining how they classified cases. The one remaining case is under investigation, as doctors still need information about the child’s medical history.
Parents Raise Concerns
Parents have expressed growing concern after hearing about polio vaccine reactions. Some mothers have reported their children experiencing side effects like rashes, vomiting, fever, or the development of skin lumps post-vaccination.
A section of netizens have also taken to social media to criticize the Ministry of Health’s recent polio vaccine campaign.
Dr. Amoth has however reassured the public that these reactions represent an incredibly low risk relative to the over three million children vaccinated. He added that the Health Ministry’s investigation into these polio vaccine reactions is ongoing. Amoth confirmed that health officials are closely monitoring all reported reactions, particularly the five children who continue to be observed for more severe symptoms.
Despite this, the Ministry of Health is set to conduct the second round of polio vaccination campaigns from Saturday, 9th Nov to Wednesday, 13th Nov 2024, in 9 high-risk counties. In a statement on X, the Ministry said all eligible children will receive the polio vaccine, regardless of previous immunization status.
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