Papua New Guinea has declared a polio outbreak after detecting type 2 poliovirus in environmental samples from its two largest cities, Port Moresby and Lae. Subsequent testing confirmed the virus in two asymptomatic children in Lae, indicating community transmission.
This marks the country’s first polio outbreak since 2018 and is linked genetically to a strain circulating in Indonesia. With less than 50% of the population immunized, health officials are concerned about the potential for rapid spread.
In response, the government, supported by WHO, UNICEF, and the Australian government, has launched an emergency vaccination campaign targeting children under five. Efforts include deploying technical specialists to improve vaccine delivery and leveraging community leaders to promote accurate information and encourage immunization.
Health Minister Elias Kapavore emphasized that while the situation is serious, it is manageable with swift action. Authorities aim to increase routine immunization coverage to 90% to protect children long-term.
The World Health Organization warns that polio anywhere poses a threat everywhere, underscoring the importance of global vigilance and cooperation in eradicating the disease.