Correlation between polio immunization coverage and overall morbidity and mortality for COVID-19: an epidemiological...

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Immunology
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic prompted investigations into potential non-specific effects of existing vaccines.
• Polio vaccination, particularly with live-attenuated vaccines, was explored for a possible protective role against SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between polio vaccination coverage and COVID-19 morbidity and mortality rates globally.
• To assess the scientific basis for claims suggesting polio vaccination offers protection against COVID-19.

Main Methods:

• Data on polio immunization coverage and COVID-19 cases/deaths were extracted from the WHO Global Health Observatory.
• Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, Kruskal-Wallis H test, and Spearman rank correlation coefficient (rho).
• Countries were stratified by income group for further analysis.

Main Results:

• A significant positive correlation was observed between polio vaccine coverage and COVID-19 cases per million (rho = 0.37, p < 0.001).
• A significant positive correlation was also found between polio vaccine coverage and COVID-19 deaths per million (rho = 0.30, p < 0.001).
• Income groups showed significant correlations with vaccine coverage, COVID-19 cases, and deaths.

Conclusions:

• The study found no evidence to support claims of a protective effect of polio vaccination against COVID-19.
• Current polio vaccination strategies should remain focused on polio eradication in endemic regions.
• There is insufficient evidence to recommend polio immunization for COVID-19 prevention.