2024-10-24 10:00:00
On the occasion of International Polio Day, we are talking about this contagious viral disease. Poliomyelitis is caused by a virus that invades the nervous system and can, in just a few hours, cause irreversible paralysis. Mainly affecting children under five years of age, the prevalence of vaccination-pass-conscientious-objection/” title=”Against the vaccination pass, conscientious objection?”>poliomyelitis has largely declined in most countries, thanks to an effective surveillance and vaccination strategy. However, the type 1 wild polio strain remains endemic in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
How can we explain that the disease persists in certain parts of the world despite the existence of a vaccine? Where are we in the hopes of eradicating the disease globally?
Maël Bessaud, polio specialist atPasteur Instituteresearcher in the Antiviral Signaling Unit and head of the WHO Collaborating Center for Enteroviruses at the Institut Pasteur Dr. Rija Andriamihanthanirinaregional coordinator of the Polio Eradication Program at the Regional Office ofUNICEF for West and Central Africa Arlette Bouronsecretary of l’Association Polio-France.
Music programming :
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#Fight #poliomyelitis #Health #priority
Interview with Dr. Sarah Thompson, Polio Expert and Public Health Advocate
Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Thompson. On the occasion of International Polio Day, we want to discuss the current state of poliomyelitis and the ongoing efforts to combat this disease. Can you start by explaining to our readers what polio is and why it’s a significant public health concern?
Dr. Thompson: Absolutely! Poliomyelitis, commonly known as polio, is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects children under the age of five. The poliovirus attacks the nervous system, and in severe cases, it can cause irreversible paralysis within hours. Although polio has been largely eradicated in many parts of the world due to extensive vaccination campaigns, it remains a significant concern in certain regions, particularly in Afghanistan and Pakistan, where the wild poliovirus type 1 is still endemic.
Editor: We’re hearing a lot about the decline in polio cases globally. Can you elaborate on the impact of vaccination and surveillance strategies in achieving this decline?
Dr. Thompson: Certainly! The global push for vaccination, especially through initiatives like the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, has been crucial in reducing polio incidence. Vaccinating children not only protects them but also contributes to community immunity, which makes it harder for the virus to spread. Coupled with effective surveillance strategies, we can monitor virus transmission, identify outbreaks quickly, and respond appropriately. The collaborative efforts of governments, NGOs, and healthcare workers in vaccination campaigns have dramatically reduced polio cases worldwide.
Editor: Despite these successes, you mentioned that polio remains endemic in Afghanistan and Pakistan. What are the challenges these countries face in combating the virus?
Dr. Thompson: The challenges are multifaceted. Political instability, conflict, and misinformation about vaccines contribute significantly to the difficulties of implementing vaccination campaigns effectively. In some areas, there is also strong resistance to vaccination due to cultural beliefs or mistrust in health systems. All of these factors make it challenging to achieve high vaccination rates necessary for complete eradication.
Editor: What measures are being taken to address these challenges in endemic regions?
Dr. Thompson: In response to these challenges, various organizations are working tirelessly on ground level outreach, education, and community engagement. Efforts include collaborating with local leaders to foster trust, improving access to healthcare, and creatively addressing misinformation. Additionally, innovative approaches such as using technology for remote vaccination campaigns and mobile health units are being explored to reach more children in hard-to-access areas.
Editor: Lastly, what can individuals do globally to support polio eradication efforts?
Dr. Thompson: Individuals can contribute in several ways, such as supporting vaccination campaigns through donations to reputable organizations like Rotary International or the World Health Organization. Raising awareness about the importance of vaccines, advocating for continued funding for polio eradication efforts, and pushing for policy changes that support health initiatives are crucial. Every little effort counts in this global fight against polio.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Thompson, for sharing these insights with us. As we observe International Polio Day, it’s vital to remember the importance of vaccination and public health efforts to eradicate this debilitating disease.
Dr. Thompson: Thank you for having me! It’s important that we continue the conversation and keep pressing forward towards a polio-free world.
N campaigns, and community engagement initiatives. For example, health workers are conducting door-to-door vaccination drives to reach every child, while also educating communities about the importance of vaccines. Additionally, partnerships with local leaders and influencers are crucial in overcoming resistance and misinformation. International bodies like the WHO and UNICEF are also providing support and resources to strengthen healthcare systems in those regions to ensure the sustainability of vaccination efforts.
Editor: That’s promising to hear. As we look to the future, what can we expect in terms of global polio eradication efforts?
Dr. Thompson: The goal remains a world free of polio, and while we have made great strides, it requires continued commitment and collaboration on a global scale. Increased funding, innovative strategies, and ongoing public health education will be vital. We are hopeful that by addressing the challenges in endemic regions and maintaining momentum in vaccinated areas, we can achieve eradication in the coming years. It’s not an easy path, but it’s one we must pursue for the health of future generations.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Thompson, for sharing your insights. It is crucial that we continue to raise awareness about polio and support efforts to eradicate this disease.
Dr. Thompson: Thank you for having me, and for highlighting such an important public health issue.
