The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially confirmed a new outbreak of polio in Papua New Guinea, marking the country’s first resurgence since being declared polio-free in 2000. Health officials have raised alarms as the virus has been detected in major cities, prompting swift response efforts.
According to AFP, WHO found traces of the virus in sewage and environmental samples in the capital Port Moresby and the second-largest city, Lae. Further testing confirmed Type 2 poliovirus in two children in Lae, indicating community transmission is underway.
WHO representative in Papua New Guinea, Sevil Huseynova, said this outbreak is particularly concerning because less than 50% of the country’s children are vaccinated. She noted that low immunization coverage increases the risk of rapid virus spread. Genetic tests also linked the strain to one circulating in neighboring Indonesia.
Papua New Guinea’s Health Minister Elias Kapavore acknowledged the seriousness of the situation but expressed confidence. “We’ve dealt with polio before and know what steps to take,” he told reporters. He emphasized the safety and effectiveness of vaccination and said the government is acting quickly to protect children.
Polio is a highly infectious disease that spreads mostly through contaminated water. It mainly affects children under five and can cause paralysis or even death. WHO has urged immediate action and improved vaccination coverage to contain the outbreak and prevent further transmission.