Polio, a highly contagious viral disease that can cause paralysis, has been largely eradicated in many parts of the world, including the UK. However, recent detections of vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (VDPV2) in UK sewage samples highlight the need for continued vigilance and preventive measures.
Recent Developments
In November 2024, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) identified VDPV2 in sewage samples from Leeds, London, and West Sussex. This strain is linked to a variant circulating in several African countries and recently detected in parts of Europe. Fortunately, there is no evidence of widespread community transmission in the UK, and the risk to the general public remains low.
In response to previous detections in London, a vaccination booster campaign was launched in 2022 and 2023, targeting children aged 1 to 9. More than 370,000 doses of the polio vaccine were administered, significantly reducing the likelihood of transmission. No new cases of poliovirus were detected in London after early November 2022, suggesting that the campaign was successful in mitigating the threat.
Despite these positive developments, the World Health Organization (WHO) has emphasized the need for continued awareness. The UK and other European nations have retained their polio-free status, but challenges such as lower-than-ideal immunization coverage and the risk of international importation of the virus remain concerns.
How to Reduce the Risk of Polio
While the UK remains at low risk, individuals and families can take proactive steps to prevent the resurgence of polio.
1. Ensure Vaccination Coverage
Polio is preventable through vaccination, which is part of the UK’s routine immunization schedule. The inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) is given at different stages:
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8, 12, and 16 weeks old (as part of the 6-in-1 vaccine)
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3 years and 4 months old (as part of the 4-in-1 preschool booster)
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14 years old (as part of the 3-in-1 teenage booster)
Parents should check their children’s vaccination records and ensure they are up to date. Adults who missed childhood vaccinations can also receive polio boosters if needed.
2. Maintain Good Hygiene Practices
Polio spreads through contaminated food, water, and direct person-to-person contact. Practicing good hygiene helps minimize risk:
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Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the toilet and before handling food.
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Encourage children to develop proper handwashing habits.
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Maintain clean and sanitary home environments.
3. Be Aware of Travel Risks
Some regions of the world continue to report polio cases, particularly in Africa and parts of Asia. If traveling to these areas:
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Check vaccination recommendations before departure.
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Consider receiving a booster dose of the polio vaccine if traveling to high-risk regions.
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Practice safe food and water consumption to avoid potential exposure.
4. Support Public Health Initiatives
Regular surveillance, such as sewage testing for poliovirus, is vital to early detection and response. The UKHSA continues to monitor wastewater samples across the country to track potential poliovirus presence. Supporting public health policies and staying informed about vaccination campaigns ensures community-wide protection.
Conclusion
Although the UK remains polio-free, the recent detection of VDPV2 in sewage underscores the need for continued awareness and preventative action. The best defense against polio is widespread vaccination, good hygiene practices, and adherence to public health recommendations. By staying vigilant, individuals and communities can help prevent the resurgence of polio and maintain the UK’s polio-free status.