Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Chad, and Mali have collectively reported 134 cases of polio type 2 in 2024, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
The announcement was made by the Regional Director for WHO, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti in a statement marking World Polio Day on Wednesday.
Dr. Moeti revealed that nearly 70 million children in high-risk areas of these nations have received vaccinations this year.
“This effort reflects our commitment to eradicating polio,” she said, emphasizing the urgent need for “strong political commitment” to combat the disease effectively.
Highlighting recent collaborative efforts, Dr. Moeti stated, “In July and August 2024, government leaders, WHO, UNICEF, and partners united to create a coordination plan aimed at eradicating the variant poliovirus.” She stressed the critical role of vigilance and community involvement, asserting, “We need to enhance surveillance, especially in underserved areas, and accelerate our response to any new detections.”
The Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) underscored the importance of community health workers, especially in regions facing insecurity. “These local heroes make the difference between success and failure,” Moeti remarked, advocating for ongoing support for their efforts.
Dr. Moeti further called for global solidarity: “Our success is not just Africa’s—it is the world’s. With strong leadership and unity, a polio-free future is within our reach.” As the fight against polio progresses, the message is clear: vigilance today is essential for a healthier tomorrow.
