WHO Detects Vaccine-Derived Poliovirus in Morobe Province
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has confirmed a new outbreak of poliovirus in Papua New Guinea. On 9 May, health authorities detected vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) in stool samples from two healthy children in Lae, located in Morobe province.
According to WHO, any detection of either wild or vaccine-derived poliovirus—even in individuals without symptoms—is treated as a major public health concern. The virus found in these cases has been classified as a “polio outbreak.”
Low Vaccination Rates Heighten Concern
This marks the first polio outbreak in Papua New Guinea since 2018. That previous outbreak also occurred in Lae, highlighting a persistent vulnerability in the region. Although vaccination is highly effective in preventing all forms of polio, coverage in Papua New Guinea remains low. WHO noted that only around 44% of children have received the third dose of the polio vaccine, which is essential for full protection.
Health authorities are now working to increase vaccination rates in the affected area and monitor for further spread of the virus. Boosting immunity in the community is seen as the most effective way to contain the outbreak quickly.
Global Spread of Vaccine-Derived Polio
While wild polio continues to be endemic only in Pakistan and Afghanistan, vaccine-derived poliovirus has led to outbreaks in several other countries. In 2024 alone, Nigeria and Ethiopia have reported dozens of cases involving paralysis caused by vaccine-derived strains.
Poliomyelitis is mainly spread through the faecal-oral route and is highly infectious. It can enter the nervous system, leading to paralysis or even death, especially in children under two years of age. Most cases show no symptoms, making early detection and widespread vaccination essential for control and prevention.
with inputs from Reuters
