In a recent development, Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Health and National Public Health Agency (NPHA) have confirmed a case of Polio Virus (PV3) on March 8th, 2024.
According to reports, the Ministry of Health and Sanitation (MOHs), in collaboration with the NPHA, swiftly responded to a suspected case of poliovirus type 3 (PV3) in a child from Kambia district.
Following thorough investigations and prompt testing conducted at the Institute Pasteur in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, and confirmed at the National Institute of Communicable Disease (NICD) in South Africa, it was determined that the child, who was found to be severely malnourished, was shedding vaccine-derived poliovirus.
Fortunately, the testing confirmed that it was not a wild poliovirus case, alleviating concerns. However, health officials emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant.
The NPHA and MOH are actively collaborating with neighboring countries on cross-border surveillance to monitor the situation closely.
In response to this development, the NPHA, MOH, and WHO, along with technical partners, are intensifying efforts to educate the public about polio and vaccination. They are also working on strengthening national surveillance systems and implementing a robust response plan.
Health officials have urged the public to ensure all children under five receive the recommended vaccinations, including the polio vaccine, as it remains the most effective way to protect children from debilitating diseases.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing situation.
