The Ministry of Health has declared a public health emergency. This came following the discovery of a circulating Vaccine-Derived Poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) in Koforidua, Eastern Region. The virus was detected in an environmental sample during routine polio surveillance by the Polio Laboratory at the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), a World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Polio Laboratory.
Detection of the Virus
The sample was collected on August 20, 2024. Preliminary tests conducted on September 3, 2024, confirmed the presence of poliovirus. On September 5, 2024, the sample was identified as the vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2).
Vaccine-Derived Poliovirus
Vaccine-derived poliovirus is a well-documented strain of poliovirus mutated from the strain originally contained in OPV. OPV contains a live, weakened form of poliovirus that replicates in the intestine for a limited period, thereby developing immunity by building up antibodies. On rare occasions, when replicating in the gastrointestinal tract, OPV strains can genetically change and may spread in communities that are not fully vaccinated against polio, especially in areas where there is poor hygiene, poor sanitation, or overcrowding. The lower the population’s immunity, the longer vaccine-derived poliovirus survives and the more genetic changes it undergoes.
Measures to Contain the Virus
To address the situation, the Ghana Health Service has begun field investigations. These efforts aim to trace the source of the virus, assess its geographic spread, and evaluate the risk of transmission to humans. Enhanced surveillance is also underway, alongside efforts to improve public communication.
Dr. Okoe Boye emphasized the importance of public cooperation, encouraging citizens to practice better personal hygiene and maintain good sanitation. He reassured the public, stating, “We wish to assure the public that the Ministry of Health, together with its partners, is doing everything possible to prevent the further spread of the virus from the environment to humans.”
Public Health Advisory
The Ministry is urging everyone to take precautions to avoid the transmission of polio. Communities should ensure proper waste management, clean water usage, and personal hygiene practices. The government and health officials are working diligently to contain the virus and protect public health.
Conclusion
The detection of the Vaccine-Derived Poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) is a serious public health issue, but the Ministry of Health is acting quickly to manage the situation. Citizens are encouraged to follow hygiene guidelines to reduce the risk of transmission.