As the world marks World Polio Day 2024, Africa is poised on the threshold of a major milestone in eradicating polio, says the World Health Organisation (WHO).
According to WHO, significant progress has been made, with Madagascar achieving a full year without detecting circulating variant poliovirus type 1 (cVDPV1) and Southern Africa closing the imported wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) outbreak declared in 2022.
Dr Matshidiso Moeti, World Health Organisation’s Regional Director for Africa, reflected on the continent’s remarkable journey, highlighting the determination of governments, healthcare workers, and communities.
“This is not just a reflection on a decade of challenges and triumphs, but a meditation on the human spirit’s capacity to overcome adversity through shared purpose and commitment.”
Notable achievements in the region include a remarkable 96% decrease in cVDPV1 detections and a 65% drop in cVDPV2 detections in the African Region, comparing data from 2023 and 2024.
Furthermore, nearly 70 million children in high-risk areas have been vaccinated since the beginning of the year.
Additionally, laboratory capacity has been enhanced, enabling faster identification and response to outbreaks.
However, Dr Moeti emphasised the need for continued vigilance, particularly in underserved areas.
“We must remain vigilant through robust surveillance systems, respond rapidly with high-quality vaccination campaigns, improve routine immunisation coverage, and ensure that the polio program’s infrastructure continues to benefit other public health priorities.”
Despite progress, challenges persist, including the persistent transmission of circulating variant polio type 2 (cVDPV2) in countries in the Lake Chad Basin and Sahel, fueled by limited access to healthcare and population movement.
The Lake Chad Basin and Sahel regions require targeted interventions, leveraging community engagement and innovative strategies to reach inaccessible areas. Enhanced collaboration among governments, partners, and local stakeholders is crucial to tackling these challenges.
Dr Moeti commended the swift response of Malawi, Mozambique, and neighboring countries in containing the WPV1 outbreak. This success demonstrates the power of coordinated action and community-led initiatives.
As Dr. Moeti transitions from her role, she calls on governments, partners, and communities to recommit to the cause.
“Let us honor the sacrifices and dedication of the health workers, community leaders, and families who make this progress possible. Our success is not just Africa’s—it is the world’s. With sustained momentum, strong leadership, and global solidarity, a polio-free future is within our reach.”
The World Health Organisation, UNICEF, and partners remain committed to supporting Africa’s polio eradication efforts. Together, they will continue to strengthen surveillance, vaccination campaigns, and community engagement to ensure that every child is protected from this debilitating disease.
With Africa on the cusp of polio eradication, World Polio Day 2024 serves as a rallying cry for renewed commitment and collective action.
As Dr Moeti emphasised, “We are closer than ever to a polio-free Africa. Let us seize this moment and make history together.”
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