Malawi vaccinates a new generation of children against polio, which still hasn't been eradicated - AP News
AP News
February 13, 2026
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Malawi has launched a vaccination campaign targeting a new generation of children to protect them from polio, a disease that remains uneradicated despite global efforts. The initiative aims to vaccinate 250,000 children across the country, focusing on regions where access to healthcare is limited and polio cases have been reported. This move underscores the ongoing challenge of eliminating polio, particularly in low-income countries with underdeveloped healthcare systems.
Polio, a highly contagious virus that can lead to permanent paralysis or even death, has seen a resurgence in recent years due to factors like conflict, poor infrastructure, and vaccine hesitancy. Malawi’s vaccination drive is part of a broader regional effort to combat the disease, which has been detected in neighboring countries as well. The campaign is supported by international health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, which have provided resources and expertise to ensure its success.
The importance of this initiative lies in its potential to prevent future outbreaks and reduce the burden of polio on communities. By focusing on vulnerable populations, Malawi is taking a proactive approach to safeguarding public health. This effort also highlights the need for sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure and education to address vaccine hesitancy and improve access to preventive care.
For readers interested in global health, this story emphasizes the ongoing challenges of disease eradication in resource-limited settings. It serves as a reminder of the importance of international collaboration and the allocation of resources to support countries like Malawi in their fight
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Originally published on AP News on 2/13/2026