Poliovirusuitbraken

Poliovirusuitbraken refer to occurrences in which the poliovirus spreads within a population, causing polio cases. The poliovirus, a member of the Picornaviridae family, is transmitted primarily through the fecal-oral route, although oral–saliva transmission can occur. Disease severity ranges from asymptomatic infection to paralytic polio, which can lead to permanent paralysis or death.

Historical outbreaks have occurred sporadically since the first reported cases in the 19th century. The 20th century saw widespread epidemics in many countries, often linked to inadequate sanitation and low vaccine coverage. The introduction of inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) in the 1950s and oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV) in the 1960s dramatically reduced global polio incidence, leading to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative in 1988.

Recent poliovirusuitbraken have largely been confined to regions with disrupted health services, conflict, or weakened vaccination programs. In 2023, outbreaks were reported in portions of Africa and parts of the Middle East, driven by OPV-derived vaccine strains (cVDPV) in areas with low immunity. Handwashing, improved sewage treatment, and high vaccination coverage are critical control measures. Surveillance relies on sentinel case detection and environmental sewage sampling for viral presence.

The goal of mitigating poliovirusuitbraken is complete eradication, which requires maintaining high immunisation rates, rapid response to detected cases, and sustained public health infrastructure. Continued global cooperation is essential because even a single imported case can reignite transmission in vulnerable communities.

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