17/05/2026
Earlier yesterday, a five days, second-round Diphtheria Outbreak Response Campaign officially commenced in South West State priority districts across Bay region, (Baidoa, Burhakaba, Berdale, Dinsor and Qasaxdhere district targeting children who missed routine immunization services.
A total of 372,038 children are being targeted across 5 districts, with the goal of protecting communities through timely vaccination and increased public awareness.
Following the diphtheria outbreak reported across the country, the Somali Field Epidemiology Network (SOM-FETP Alumni Network) calls upon its members at both national and state levels to intensify community sensitization, support vaccination campaigns, and strengthen surveillance, outbreak prevention efforts to curb the spread of the disease.
Special appreciation to Wasaaradda Caafimaadka, Koonfurgalbeed for its leadership, coordination, and commitment to protecting vulnerable communities.
Ministry of Health- SomaliaAfricanSomalia National Institute of HealthWHO SomaliaUNICEF SomaliaTEPHINETCDCAfrica CDCGavi, the Vaccine Alliance