New Zealand: Poliovirus wastewater testing established
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Loading... - Ruiz Rocio
- 25 Apr 2023
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ESR (Institute of Environmental Science and Research) and Manatū Hauora have this week established routine poliovirus testing in wastewater following a successful three-month pilot.
Director of Public Health Dr Nicholas Jones confirms Aotearoa continues to be polio-free.
“The decision to introduce poliovirus wastewater testing is in response to the increased risk of poliovirus globally. In November 2022, WHO (World Health Organization) advised of an increase in polio activity in areas which have previously seen polio eradication.
“During the COVID-19 pandemic childhood immunisation coverage fell globally, including in Aotearoa. This means that if poliovirus enters Aotearoa, the risk of it spreading and causing disease, especially in younger children, is greater than it was in pre-COVID-19 years,” Dr Jones says.
There is no cure for polio disease and for some people, it can be debilitating and even fatal. People who survive can be left with lifelong disability and other complications.
“Vaccination dramatically reduces the risk from polio so it’s important that people are up to date with their vaccinations in the event that polio does re-enter Aotearoa.”
In New Zealand, children are immunised against 13 preventable diseases, including polio, whooping cough, chickenpox and measles. These immunisations are free for babies, children, adolescents, and pregnant people. Read More…
