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Outbreak of poliomyelitis--Kunduz, Afghanistan, 1999
Abstract:
Since May 10, 1999, 26 cases of acute flaccid paralysis (AFP), including five cases with isolation of wild poliovirus type 1 and one with type 3, have been reported from Kunduz province in northern Afghanistan. Fifteen (54%) case-patients resided in Kunduz city, and the remaining patients resided in the districts surrounding Kunduz. Although the exact causes for the outbreak are not known, the discontinuation of polio vaccination activities in mid-1997 in northern Afghanistan because of ongoing civil conflict may have facilitated the outbreak.
Insights
Afghanistan reported 26 acute flaccid paralysis cases, including wild poliovirus types 1 and 3, in Kunduz. Discontinued polio vaccinations due to conflict may have fueled this outbreak.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- Acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) is a critical indicator of poliovirus circulation.
- Northern Afghanistan experienced a significant increase in AFP cases starting May 10, 1999.
- Wild poliovirus (WPV) strains were identified in several reported cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report and analyze the outbreak of acute flaccid paralysis in Kunduz province, Afghanistan.
- To identify the causative agents, including wild poliovirus types.
- To explore potential contributing factors to the observed outbreak.
Main Methods:
- Case surveillance for acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) was conducted.
- Laboratory analysis was performed to isolate and identify poliovirus strains from affected individuals.
- Geographic distribution of cases was analyzed.
Main Results:
- A total of 26 AFP cases were reported in Kunduz province.
- Wild poliovirus type 1 was isolated from five cases, and type 3 from one case.
- The majority of cases (54%) were concentrated in Kunduz city and surrounding districts.
Conclusions:
- The findings indicate a significant poliovirus outbreak in northern Afghanistan.
- The interruption of polio vaccination activities, likely due to civil conflict, is a probable factor contributing to the outbreak.
- Urgent public health interventions are necessary to control poliovirus transmission in the region.