Potential Polio Outbreak Threatens Europe: What You Need to Know
In a concerning development, vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 has been detected in wastewater systems of five European countries: Spain, Poland, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Finland. These findings were reported by Eurosurveillance, hinting at potential risks for unimmunized populations.
Wide Genetic Variations Detected
Analyses of the virus samples revealed significant genetic diversity, suggesting multiple independent introductions from outside European surveillance networks. This diversity poses challenges in tracking and controlling the poliovirus transmission.
Vaccination Coverage and Vulnerable Populations
Despite high national immunization rates, subnational coverage of the third dose of the inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) varies widely, ranging from 43% to over 99%. This disparity puts certain populations at risk, as undervaccinated individuals are not protected against polio.
Increased Vigilance Needed
While no confirmed polio cases have been reported, the European Centre for Disease Control (ECDC) urges increased vigilance. The ECDC warns that despite the low risk to vaccinated populations, under or unvaccinated individuals face higher risks, especially in areas with low vaccination coverage.
According to Dr. Erwin Duizer, head of the Netherlands’ National Polio Laboratory, asymptomatic carriers can silently spread the virus for extended periods. This silent transmission is concerning as it may lead to new paralytic polio cases if left unchecked.
Dr. Soile Blomqvist, a senior researcher from the Finnish Institute for Health Welfare, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the presence of poliovirus in wastewater as a potential risk signal for transmission.
Children at Greatest Risk
Children under five are most susceptible to polio infection. The ECDC estimates that around 2.4 million children aged 12 months to 23 months between 2012 and 2021 did not receive the required three doses of IPV. Another 600,000 children in 2022 and 2023 also missed out on necessary vaccinations.
The ECDC attributes underimmunization issues to vaccine hesitancy, complacency regarding polio risks, and barriers to vaccine access.
Measures to Reduce Polio Risk
Strengthening vaccination programs is crucial for controlling polio. All children should receive the full series of polio vaccinations. Travel requirements for visitors to/from polio-endemic regions should comply with international health regulations.
Intensive surveillance, including wastewater monitoring, is essential to detect silent transmission and to promptly investigate suspected cases of acute flaccid paralysis.
Dr. Duizer recommends additional preventive measures such as handwashing with soap and water after contact with stool, flushing the toilet with the lid closed, and cleaning toilet areas frequently.
Conclusion
The detection of vaccine-derived poliovirus in wastewater systems across Europe underscores the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to prevent a potential outbreak. Ensuring high vaccination coverage and adhering to health guidelines are key to safeguarding public health.
For more information about polio and vaccination, visit the ECDC website.
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