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Poliomyelitis in Oman. II. Toward eradication
S H Al-Dhahry1, S T Al-Awaidy, S M Al-Busaidy
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Sultan Qaboos University, PO Box 35 Al-Khodh, Muscat 123, Oman. sdhahry@squ.edu.om
Acta Tropica
|October 16, 2001
Summary
Oman has successfully eradicated polio through comprehensive vaccination and surveillance programs, achieving six years polio-free status. Continued vigilance is crucial to prevent re-importation of wild poliovirus.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Oman experienced multiple paralytic poliomyelitis outbreaks between 1988 and 1993, including type 1 and type 3 poliovirus.
- These outbreaks necessitated the refinement of polio eradication strategies within the Sultanate.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail the polio eradication activities implemented in Oman.
- To assess the effectiveness of these strategies in achieving and maintaining a polio-free status.
Main Methods:
- Administered five primary and three booster doses of trivalent oral polio vaccine.
- Conducted annual National Immunization Days (NIDs) since 1995 with over 90% coverage.
- Implemented acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) surveillance with rapid case reporting and virological testing.
- Established weekly zero reporting from 22 sentinel sites.
Main Results:
- Oman has remained polio-free for the past six years.
- High vaccination coverage and robust surveillance have been key to success.
Conclusions:
- Oman's integrated polio eradication program, combining vaccination and surveillance, has been highly effective.
- Ongoing risk of wild poliovirus importation, particularly from neighboring regions, requires sustained efforts.