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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
Abstract:
In the past decade, the Sultanate of Oman has experienced three outbreaks of paralytic poliomyelitis--a widespread polio type 1 epidemic in 1988/1989, four cases of polio type 3 in three different regions in 1991, and a localized type 1 outbreak in 1993. The lessons learnt from each of these epidemics have guided us to modify and improve our polio eradication activities. Currently, these activities include administration of five primary and three booster doses of trivalent oral polio vaccine, yearly national immunization campaigns (NIDs) since 1995 with coverage of >90%, localized immunization campaigns, acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) surveillance which involves reporting of all cases by facsimile to the Department of Surveillance within 24 h of detecting a case and weekly zero reporting from 22 sentinel sites, and virological testing of stool specimens of all AFP cases and their close contacts at the national, World Health Organization accredited laboratory. The cumulative success of these activities has resulted in Oman being free from polio for the past 6 years. However, the possibility of importation of wild poliovirus, particularly from southern and western Asia still exists.
Insights
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.