The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that 21 countries in the African Region are still grappling with circulating variant polio outbreaks.
Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, the WHO Regional Director for Africa, made this announcement in a statement released in commemoration of this year’s World Polio Day. While emphasizing that even a single case of polio is one too many, Dr. Moeti pointed out that the region has witnessed a reduction in the number of cases detected this year.
Specifically, there has been a decrease from 438 cases of circulating variant polio reported during the same period last year (end of September 2022) to 304 cases this year. This signifies a 31% decrease in the number of cases within the past 12 months.
Furthermore, Dr. Moeti highlighted that the region has not reported any cases of wild poliovirus for over a year, which is a positive development.
These results provide a glimmer of hope that the African Region may succeed in interrupting poliovirus transmission, aligning with the global objective of eradicating polio.
Dr. Moeti also acknowledged the adverse impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on polio eradication efforts, which led to a decline in population immunity and the resurgence of certain poliovirus strains.
Nevertheless, she expressed satisfaction with the swift declaration and response by member states to polio and other health emergencies during outbreaks. This proactive approach is essential in the ongoing fight against polio.
