On October 24th, as we observe World Polio Day, it is important for us, as healthcare professionals, to reflect on the progress made in combating polio while acknowledging the challenges that still exist. This day reminds us of our contributions to the worldwide mission to eliminate this debilitating disease.
Importance of Vaccination
Polio, which was once a prevalent and feared illness, has been nearly eradicated. The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), established in 1988, has played a critical role in reducing polio cases by over
99%. However, the battle against polio is not yet finished. The disease remains endemic in a few countries, and outbreaks continue to arise in regions with low immunization coverage.
India continues to conduct one National Immunisation Day (NID) and two Sub-National Immunisation Days each year to uphold population immunity against wild poliovirus and to maintain its polio-free status.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Polio
- Disruption of Polio Vaccination Campaigns: Many polio vaccination campaigns were paused or delayed
to prevent the spread of COVID-19, leading to gaps in immunization coverage. - Decline in Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) Surveillance: There was a 33% decline in reported AFP cases
from January to September 2020 compared to the same period in 2019. - Increased Time for Laboratory Processing: The mean number of days between the collection of the
second stool sample and its receipt by the laboratory increased by 70%. - Resources were Diverted
- Missed Routine Vaccinations: Approximately 23 million children missed out on routine vaccinations in
2020, with significant increases in missed doses in countries like India and Pakistan. - Resumption of Vaccination Efforts: Polio vaccination campaigns resumed in August 2020, but the
interruption caused setbacks in eradication efforts. - Increased Public Awareness
Risk factors for polio include
Not being immunised, Traveling to an area with polio, Living with or caring for someone who may be infected, Having a weakened immune system, Being pregnant, Being elderly or very young.
Clinical Features and Vaccination
CONCLUSION
As we look to the future, it is crucial to remember that the eradication of polio is within our reach. The lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic should strengthen our resolve to build robust healthcare systems capable of addressing both current and future challenges.
On this World Polio Day, let us renew our commitment to a polio-free world. Together, we can ensure that no child suffers from this preventable disease. Let us be the generation that finishes the job.
The Medical Bulletin
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