The suspension of immunization campaigns in Kano and the subsequent outbreak of polio in that area was fuelled by unfounded rumours about the safety of polio vaccine.
Indeed, countries like Angola and Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo face serious polio outbreaks because fighting has forced the suspension of immunization efforts in many areas.
International spread was exacerbated by the suspension of immunization in parts of northern Nigeria for up to 12 months in 2003 and 2004 due to rumors regarding oral polio vaccine (OPV) safety.
Nigeria's suspension of immunization campaigns in key northern states, and in particular Kano, remains the greatest challenge — and the greatest opportunity — for a quick end to polio in Africa.
Patient safety was monitored by an independent Data Monitoring Committee (DMC) who applied prespecified criteria listed in the protocols for suspension of immunization in specific individuals of concern or in all patients.
She then gave the baby two drops of polio vaccine and a supplement of vitamin A. With a suspension of immunization campaigns in parts of northern Nigeria in 2003, polio has spread to other formerly polio-free African countries, including Niger.
