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Poliomyelitis eradication in the Western Pacific Region
R H Tangermann1, J Bilous, C Maher
1Expanded Programme on Immunization Unit, World Health Organization, Western Pacific Regional Office, Manila, Philippines.
The Journal of Infectious Diseases
|February 1, 1997
Summary
Polio eradication efforts in the Western Pacific Region have significantly reduced wild poliovirus transmission, with only one endemic focus remaining. High government commitment and improved surveillance are key to achieving poliomyelitis eradication.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology
- Global Health Security
Background:
- Polio eradication activities in the Western Pacific Region (WPR) have led to a substantial decrease in wild poliovirus transmission.
- A single remaining focus of endemic transmission is identified in the Mekong Delta, spanning South Vietnam and Cambodia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on the progress of polio eradication in the WPR.
- To highlight the impact of national immunization days and acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) surveillance.
Main Methods:
- Monitoring of reported poliomyelitis cases and wild poliovirus isolations from AFP surveillance.
- Assessment of government commitment to immunization and surveillance quality.
Main Results:
- Confirmed poliomyelitis cases decreased by 93% from 5825 in 1990 to 432 in 1995.
- Wild poliovirus was isolated from only 19 of 4800 AFP patients in 1995.
- One importation of wild poliovirus type 1 into China was reported.
Conclusions:
- The WPR is nearing polio eradication, with significant progress demonstrated.
- Sustained government commitment and robust AFP surveillance are crucial for final eradication.
- An international commission has been established for certification of polio eradication in the WPR.