30 Years of Triumph: The Americas Celebrate Wild Polio Eradication on World Polio Day!

On October 24, 2024, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) marks a historic milestone—the 30th anniversary of the Americas being certified free of the wild poliovirus. This achievement, celebrated on World Polio Day, stands as a testament to the relentless efforts of health workers, governments, and communities across the region.

Back in 1975, the threat of polio loomed large, with nearly 6,000 reported cases. The paradigm shifted thanks to aggressive vaccination strategies and sustained monitoring. The last documented case of wild poliovirus was reported in Peru in September 1991, paving the way for the region's official certification in 1994.

Yet, amid this celebration, PAHO Director Jarbas Barbosa urged vigilance. Global polio transmission persists, particularly in regions like Pakistan and Afghanistan. “Until we completely eradicate poliovirus worldwide, ongoing vaccination and surveillance are vital,” he stressed. The poliovirus is highly infectious, leading to severe neurological issues, including paralysis, in some cases.

Remarkably, since 1988, the global incidence of polio has plummeted by over 99%. However, vaccine-derived strains pose a growing concern. In under-immunized populations, the oral polio vaccine can mutate, leading to circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses, which jeopardize those without immunity.

In 2023, vaccination rates in the Americas saw a slight rebound, with 87% of children receiving the required third dose of the polio vaccine, up from 83% in 2022. Despite this improvement, the target remains a critical 95% coverage across all nations to avert any resurgence of the virus.

Barbosa also identified misinformation and the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic as hinderances to vaccination efforts. He called upon community leaders, health professionals, and educators to unite and bolster efforts in sustaining immunity against not just polio, but all preventable diseases.

As the world strives for a polio-free future, the achievements celebrated today remind us of the power of collective action in combating public health challenges. With unwavering resolve, let’s commit to not only celebrating 30 years without wild polio but also ensuring that every child is protected from this devastating disease. Together, we can make history—again!