The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared the end of the type 1 polio outbreak in Madagascar, marking a major step forward in the country’s public health efforts.
In a statement released on Tuesday, WHO confirmed that no new cases of variant type 1 poliovirus have been reported since September 2023. At its peak that month, the outbreak had recorded 287 cases, including 45 cases of acute flaccid paralysis, 44 identified in communities, and 198 detected through wastewater surveillance.
“The progress made in recent years in the immunization and eradication of polio is a hopeful sign,” said Madagascar’s First Lady and immunization ambassador, Mialy Rajoelina. She emphasized the importance of ongoing awareness, cooperation, and action to ensure every child’s right to a healthy future.
The outbreak, which began in 2020, affected 30 districts across 13 regions of the island nation, posing a serious threat to children under five and unvaccinated adults.
Polio, a highly infectious viral disease, spreads through contact with contaminated food, water, or feces. It can cause severe complications, including permanent paralysis by attacking the nervous system.
Health authorities view the end of the outbreak as a major public health milestone, while also underscoring the need for continued vigilance and strong vaccination programs to prevent future resurgence.