The World Health Organisation (WHO) has announced significant progress in the fight against polio, with a 96% decrease in circulating variant poliovirus type 1 (cVDPV1) detections and a 65% drop in cVDPV2 detections in Africa between 2023 and 2024.
WHO Country Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Walter Mulombo, revealed this in Maiduguri on Thursday while commemorating World Polio Day 2024.
Mulombo noted that countries in the Lake Chad Basin and Sahel face continued transmission of cVDPV2.
Nigeria has seen a 38% decrease in circulating variant polio virus Type 2 cases between 2023 and 2024.
According to him, polio, caused by the poliovirus, remains a significant threat, particularly in regions with low vaccination rates.
Mulombo represented by Aisha Kadai, explained that symptoms include fever, fatigue, and headache.
The WHO recommends four doses of inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) for children and booster shots for adults traveling to high-risk areas.
Government leaders, WHO, UNICEF, and partners have developed a coordination plan, vaccinating nearly 70 million children in high-risk areas.
“Madagascar has achieved a major milestone, going a year without detecting cVDPV1. Southern Africa has contained the imported WPV1 outbreak declared in 2022.
“However, insecurity, limited access to healthcare, and high population movement hinder progress in the Lake Chad and Sahel regions.”
Dr. Mulombo emphasizes sustained momentum, strong leadership, and global solidarity in achieving a polio-free future.
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