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Updated: Feb 10, 2026

Whole Body Vibration Methods with Survivors of Polio
Published on: October 17, 2018
Progress Toward Polio Eradication - Worldwide, January 2016-March 2018
Abstract:
In 1988, when an estimated 350,000 cases of poliomyelitis occurred in 125 countries, the World Health Assembly resolved to eradicate polio globally. Transmission of wild poliovirus (WPV) continues uninterrupted in only three countries (Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Pakistan) (1), and among the three serotypes, WPV type 1 (WPV1) remains the only confirmed circulating type. This report describes global progress toward polio eradication during January 2016-March 2018, and updates previous reports (2). In 2017, 22 WPV1 cases were reported, a 41% decrease from the 37 WPV1 cases reported in 2016. As of April 24, 2018, eight WPV1 cases have been reported (seven in Afghanistan and one in Pakistan), compared with five cases during the same period in 2017. In Pakistan, continuing WPV1 transmission has been confirmed in multiple areas in 2018 by isolation from wastewater samples. In Nigeria, ongoing endemic WPV1 transmission was confirmed in 2016 (3); although WPV was not detected in 2017 or in 2018 to date, limitations in access for vaccination and surveillance in insurgent-held areas in northeastern Nigeria might permit continued undetected poliovirus transmission. Substantial progress toward polio eradication has continued in recent years; however, interruption of WPV transmission will require overcoming remaining challenges to reaching and vaccinating every missed child. Until poliovirus eradication is achieved, all countries must remain vigilant by maintaining high population immunity and sensitive poliovirus surveillance.
Insights
Global polio eradication efforts show progress, with a 41% decrease in wild poliovirus type 1 cases in 2017. However, challenges remain in reaching all children for vaccination to achieve complete polio eradication.
Area of Science:
- Global Health
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Disease Control
Background:
- The World Health Assembly resolved to eradicate poliomyelitis globally in 1988.
- Wild poliovirus (WPV) transmission persists in Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Pakistan.
- WPV type 1 (WPV1) is the only confirmed circulating serotype.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe global progress toward polio eradication from January 2016 to March 2018.
- To update previous reports on polio eradication efforts.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of reported wild poliovirus cases.
- Review of surveillance data, including wastewater sampling.
- Assessment of vaccination and surveillance access in challenging regions.
Main Results:
- A 41% decrease in WPV1 cases was observed in 2017 (22 cases) compared to 2016 (37 cases).
- As of April 24, 2018, eight WPV1 cases were reported, with ongoing transmission confirmed in Pakistan via wastewater.
- While no WPV was detected in Nigeria in 2017-2018, undetected transmission is possible due to access limitations.
Conclusions:
- Substantial progress has been made in polio eradication.
- Overcoming challenges in reaching unvaccinated children is crucial for interrupting WPV transmission.
- Continued global vigilance, high population immunity, and sensitive surveillance are essential until eradication is achieved.
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