Botswana conducted a two-round polio supplementary vaccination campaign against the circulating Vaccine Derived Polio Virus type 2 (cVDPV2) in early 2023. Targeting the entire population of seven years old and below, 360.370 children were vaccinated during the first-round (February 2023), while 359.878 children were vaccinated across the country during the second round of the campaign (March 2023). cVDPV2 is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects children. It has plagued communities worldwide for decades. However, with the relentless efforts of global health organizations and governments, significant strides have been made in eradicating this debilitating disease.

In October 2022 after conducting environmental surveillance tests, Botswana confirmed the presence of polio virus type 2. The country, while having no reported cases of polio since 2004, recognized the importance of maintaining high immunization coverage to prevent potential outbreaks and protect its population. In response to the positive samples, the Government of Botswana conducted supplementary polio vaccination to protect children against polio which can cause lifelong disabilities, including paralysis and muscle weakness. 

Botswana's polio supplementary vaccination campaign was a coordinated endeavor by the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), bringing together government agencies, healthcare professionals, volunteers, and international partners. Led by the Ministry of Health, the campaign received support from WHO, UNICEF, Centre Disease Control and Prevention, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and Rotary International.

Through the combined efforts of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative and the Ministry of Health, a robust logistical framework was established to ensure the smooth distribution and administration of vaccines across the country. Cold chain systems were strengthened to maintain the integrity of the vaccines throughout the supply chain. Healthcare professionals and volunteers received comprehensive training on vaccine administration, adverse event monitoring, and reporting. This approach guaranteed the highest standards of safety and quality in immunization practices.

To support the polio campaign, WHO provided technical support in the development and adaptation of guidelines, and tools, as well as microplanning, design the dashboards and facilitating the training of vaccination team members (vaccinators, recorders, supervisors, and coordinators). Through the polio surge capacity, WHO also provided support through its staff who ranged from GPEI Coordinator, National Programme Officer, Community Engagement Officers, Polio Surveillance Officers, and Data Analysts. WHO expertise in epidemiology assisted in identifying high-risk areas and deploying resources accordingly.
The campaign employed a multi-faceted strategy to ensure comprehensive coverage and reach vulnerable populations. It combined routine immunization efforts with house-to-house visits, community outreach programs, and special vaccination centers. By adopting a targeted approach, the campaign focused on high-risk areas and hard-to-reach communities, leaving no one behind.

The Ministry of Health also emphasised the use of community engagement and raising awareness in disseminating information about the campaign. Local leaders, community health workers, and volunteers played a pivotal role in dispelling myths, addressing concerns, and mobilizing communities to participate in the campaign. Public education campaigns ran through various media channels, including radio, television, and social media, amplified the message of the importance of vaccination, ensuring maximum participation.
Continuous monitoring and evaluation mechanisms were put in place to assess the campaign's progress and identify any gaps or challenges. Real-time data collection facilitated prompt decision-making and corrective measures. Regular reviews and feedback loops between WHO and the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders were a top priority to enhance the campaign's effectiveness, allowing for dynamic adjustments as needed. 

The polio vaccination campaign in Botswana achieved remarkable successes and had a profound impact on public health. Through the collective efforts of the Ministry of Health, the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, and healthcare workers and volunteers, an impressive coverage rate of 81,1 % for the first round and 80 % for the second round was attained. The polio supplementary vaccination campaign not only prevented the occurrence of polio cases but also strengthened the overall immunization infrastructure in the country, fostering a resilient healthcare system. The post-campaign assessments conducted showed that during the second round of the campaign, 24 of the 27 districts (89%) had a coverage of above 90% compared to only 11 districts (59%) in the first round.

The completion of the polio vaccination campaign in Botswana serves as a testament to the country's commitment to public health and its ability to successfully tackle disease outbreaks. This accomplishment also highlights the importance of sustained investment in immunization programs and robust health systems. As Botswana continues its journey towards the goal of a polio-free nation, the lessons learned from this campaign will undoubtedly shape future public health initiatives and contribute to the overall well-being of its people. Botswana will undoubtedly build upon this success, further strengthening its healthcare infrastructure and contributing to the global effort to eradicate polio once and for all.