Polio eradication

Polio Eradication is a global public health initiative aimed at the complete elimination of poliomyelitis (polio) worldwide. The initiative is led by the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and the Rotary International.

History

The concept of Polio Eradication was first proposed by Albert Sabin, the developer of the oral polio vaccine, in 1982. The World Health Assembly formally launched the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) in 1988 when the disease was endemic in more than 125 countries, paralyzing 350,000 children annually.

Strategy

The strategy for polio eradication is based on preventing infection by immunizing every child until transmission stops and the world is polio-free. The main tools for this are the two types of polio vaccine: inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) and oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV).

Progress

Since the launch of the GPEI, the incidence of polio has been reduced by 99%. As of 2020, polio remains endemic in only two countries: Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Challenges

Despite significant progress, challenges remain in the eradication of polio. These include logistical difficulties in reaching children with the vaccine, conflict and insecurity, and pockets of resistance to vaccination.

Future

The goal of the GPEI is to ensure a polio-free world for future generations. Once polio is eradicated, it will be the second disease after smallpox to be eradicated through human effort.

See also

• World Health Organization
• UNICEF
• Rotary International
• Albert Sabin
• Polio vaccine
• Inactivated poliovirus vaccine
• Oral poliovirus vaccine
• Afghanistan
• Pakistan
• Smallpox

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