Burkina Faso: Nationwide vaccination campaign against Typhoid Fever launched
The Minister of Health and Public Hygiene, Dr. Robert Kargougou, officially launched the national typhoid fever vaccination campaign on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at the Tanghin Dassouri medical center in Boulmiougou, Central Region.
The campaign aims to vaccinate 10.2 million children between 9 months and 14 years across the country’s 70 health districts.
The first doses of the “Typhibar” vaccine were administered at Tanghin Dassouri medical center and Application A and B School. Among the initial recipients was Moumini Bougma, 27 months old, vaccinated by the Minister himself under the proud gaze of his mother.
Dr. Christelle Néa Ouédraogo, director of vaccination prevention, explained that the single-dose vaccine offers up to 80% protection for five years.
Vaccines will be distributed through fixed and outreach strategies, ensuring accessibility in health facilities, markets, and other public spaces.
Dr. Kargougou also announced plans to incorporate “Typhibar” into the expanded immunization program schedule.
This campaign brings relief to parents, many of whom recognize the significant impact of typhoid fever—a disease rooted in poor hygiene practices.
Yasmine Ouédraogo, a primary school student, proudly received her vaccine and encouraged her peers to do the same.
The World Health Organization (WHO), a key technical and financial partner, applauded the initiative.
Its representative, Seydou Coulibaly, highlighted that typhoid fever causes over 160,000 deaths annually worldwide and praised Burkina Faso for implementing the 2017 WHO recommendations.
This campaign marks a crucial step in Burkina Faso’s fight against typhoid fever and reaffirms the government’s commitment to safeguarding the health of its children, who embody the country’s future.
Papa IBRAHIMA
