MANILA, 24 October 2023 — The World Health Organization Polio Risk Assessment for 2022-2023 shows that the Philippines is still considered at risk for polio outbreaks, with 24 out of 81 provinces considered high-risk. UNICEF Philippines, on the occasion of World Polio Day, urges the government and immunization partners to continue intensifying catch-up vaccination efforts to prevent the resurgence of this infectious, life-threatening disease, especially in vulnerable communities with limited access to essential health services.

The Department of Health conducted the intensified immunization campaign called Chikiting Ligtas in May, but only reached 81 per cent instead of the 95 per cent target for polio vaccination. Notably, the target for polio immunization was reduced from 11.5 million to over three million due to challenges in vaccine supply. The Philippines has been struggling to meet the ideal 95 percent routine coverage rate for children because of governance challenges, sub-optimal demand, and persistent missed opportunities. These problems were further aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic.