Polio’s Return After Near Eradication Prompts a Global Health Warning

The spread of polio in Pakistan, Syria, Cameroon, Afghanistan, Iraq and Equatorial Guinea has prompted the World Health Organization to declare a global health emergency and impose travel restrictions on the first three countries. “Just two years ago – after a 25-year campaign that vaccinated billions of children – the paralyzing virus was near eradication; now health officials say that goal could evaporate if swift action is not taken,” reports Donald G. McNeil Jr for the New York Times. The disease is highly contagious. One case in 200 shows symptoms, which are most devastating for children. The warning urges vaccinations before travel abroad, and some countries set up vaccination stations at borders. WHO has no enforcement power, “But countries could use the [WHO] document to refuse to admit migrants, visitors or even business travelers who lack vaccination cards,” McNeil notes. War and political conflict, poverty, close quarters of refugee camps and mistrust of foreign health providers all are aiding the spread of disease. – YaleGlobal