[Poliomyelitis--why we must continue to vaccinate!].

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Vaccinology

Background:

• The global eradication of wild poliovirus is nearing completion.
• Success is attributed to extensive population immunization efforts.
• Both oral polio vaccine (OPV) and inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) are utilized, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Purpose of the Study:

• To emphasize the critical need for sustained public acceptance of polio immunization.
• To highlight the importance of maintaining high inoculation rates to prevent poliovirus re-emergence.
• To discuss the ongoing vaccination strategies required even after global polio elimination.

Main Methods:

• Review of global polio eradication strategies.
• Analysis of vaccine types (OPV vs. IPV) and their application.
• Assessment of vaccination coverage thresholds and their implications.

Main Results:

• High immunization coverage is essential for polio eradication.
• Germany has recommended only the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) since 1998.
• Vaccination rates must remain above 80-85% to prevent poliovirus reintroduction.

Conclusions:

• Continued vaccination is necessary for several years post-eradication.
• Maintaining public trust and high vaccination uptake is paramount.
• A recommended schedule includes primary immunization and adolescent boosters.