09/07/2026
Zimbabwe is conducting its third polio vaccination campaign from July 7 to 10, 2026. If you or someone you know has children under five years old living in Harare, Bulawayo or any of the 20 high-risk border districts, please ensure they receive the oral polio vaccine. The vaccine is free and requires just two drops!
Targeted Districts:
Bulawayo Metropolitan: Emakandeni, Northern Suburbs and Nkulumane
Harare Metropolitan: Harare City, Chitungwiza, Epworth and Ruwa
Manicaland: Mutare, Mutasa, Chimanimani, Nyanga and Chipinge
Mashonaland Central: Mbire, Mt. Darwin, Centenary and Rushinga
Mashonaland East: Mudzi
Mashonaland West: Kariba and Hurungwe
Masvingo: Chiredzi
Matabeleland North: Binga, Hwange and Tsholotsho
Matabeleland South: Bulilima, Mangwe, Matobo and Gwanda
Frequently asked questions on Polio and nOPV2 vaccination in Zimbabwe
Introduction
Zimbabwe is conducting three rounds of the polio vaccination campaign in 20 border districts, Harare and Bulawayo. These synchronized campaigns are also taking place in Zambia, Malawi, Botswana and Mozambique in response to polio outbreaks in the
region, with cases reported in Zambia, Namibia and Malawi. The virus detected in Malawi has been linked to one previously found in Harare, showing cross-border transmission. Children under five years will be vaccinated with the novel oral polio vaccine (nOPV2) at health facilities, outreach points, households, markets, schools, and bus stops. Two rounds were completed in April and June 2026.
Q: What does nOPV2 stand for?
nOPV2 stands for novel oral polio vaccine type 2. It is an oral vaccine used to stop outbreaks of type 2 poliovirus. Compared to older polio vaccines, it is genetically more stable. This means it provides strong immunity while significantly reducing the risk of causing new vaccine-derived outbreaks.
Q: Why do we continue to do nOPV2 vaccination rounds?
A: We continue to carry out nOPV2 vaccination rounds because this vaccine is specially designed for emergency use against type 2 poliovirus outbreaks like the one currently circulating in the region. To protect the community, a very high percentage of children
must be immunized, so repeated nOPV2 vaccination rounds keep immunity levels high and block the virus from spreading. These rounds also close gaps by reaching children who may have missed routine services and provide boosters where immunity may be
waning. In short, repeated rounds ensure every child under five is protected and the outbreak risk is eliminated in Zimbabwe.
Q: Will this nOPV2 not cause side effects to my child?
A: The novel oral polio vaccine (nOPV2) has been thoroughly tested and proven to be safe, stable, and effective in preventing polio. It has already been used worldwide, including here in Zimbabwe, where millions of children have been safely vaccinated. Only very few minor adverse events have been reported, showing that the vaccine is well-tolerated. Its success depends on reaching as many children as possible, which is why high coverage through repeated campaigns is essential to stop the spread of the virus.
Q: Is it safe to administer multiple doses of polio vaccine to children?
A: Yes, it is safe. The polio vaccine is specifically designed to be given more than once and each dose adds extra protection. Millions of children in Zimbabwe and around the world have safely received multiple doses and this repeated vaccination is what ensures strong, lasting immunity against Polio. Every additional dose strengthens your child’s defene against polio, keeping them safe from paralysis and death caused by the disease.
Q: Should my child receive the polio vaccine during both the polio campaigns and routine immunization?
A: Yes. The polio vaccine is safe and effective and every extra dose means a child gets extra protection against polio. It takes multiple doses of polio vaccine to achieve full immunity against polio. If a child has received the vaccine before, then extra doses given during the National or Sub National Immunization Days (NIDs/SNIDs) will give valuable additional immunity against polio.
Q: Why is it that the campaign is being done in some areas but not in the whole country?
A: The campaign is focused on 20 border districts, Harare and Bulawayo because these areas are at the highest risk of polio due to cross-border transmission and high population movement. Cases have been reported in nearby countries and the virus detected in Malawi was linked to one previously found in Harare. Targeting these districts ensures the strongest protection where the risk is greatest.
Q: What do I do if the polio nOPV2 campaign is not being implemented in my area?
A: Families in districts not covered by the campaign should continue following the national routine immunisation schedule. Ensuring children are up to date with their regular vaccines provides strong protection and keeps them safe. The targeted campaign is focused only on high-risk areas but routine immunisation remains the foundation of protection for every child across Zimbabwe.
Q: Where can I get more information about Polio and nOPV2 vaccination?
A: You can get reliable information from your nearest health facility or local health workers. The Ministry of Health and Child Care also shares updates through community meetings, radio, official announcements and on its official social media platforms.
