- She noted successes such as Madagascar going a full year without detecting Circulating Variant Poliovirus Type 1 and the closure of the Wild Poliovirus Type 1 outbreak in Southern Africa
The World Health Organisation’s Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, has stated that despite efforts, the spread of Circulating Variant Polio Type 2 is still driven by insecurity, limited healthcare access, and high population mobility in certain African countries.
Speaking during the 2024 World Polio Day on October 24, she highlighted that the region is closer than ever to becoming polio-free. She noted successes such as Madagascar going a full year without detecting Circulating Variant Poliovirus Type 1 and the closure of the Wild Poliovirus Type 1 outbreak in Southern Africa.
“Data shows detections of cVDPV1 have decreased by 96 per cent, and cVDPV2 by 65 per cent between 2023 and 2024. However, the virus persists in regions like the Lake Chad Basin and the Sahel, due to factors such as insecurity and population movement. In 2024, there have been 134 detections of polio type 2 in Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Mali, Niger, and Nigeria,” Moeti revealed.
She emphasized the need for strong political commitment and renewed collaboration, noting that nearly 70 million children in high-risk areas have been vaccinated since the beginning of the year. Moeti also stressed the importance of enhancing surveillance and community engagement, especially in areas affected by insecurity or social mistrust.
She praised the advancements in polio diagnostics and laboratory capacity in Africa, urging continued momentum in detecting outbreaks earlier and more efficiently.
“As I transition, I urge governments, partners, and communities to stay committed to this cause. With strong leadership and global solidarity, a polio-free future is within reach,” she concluded.
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