The Western Pacific region is commemorating a significant achievement: 25 years free from indigenous wild poliovirus, as recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO). While this milestone celebrates the relentless efforts of member states to eradicate polio, WHO has urged countries to remain vigilant against evolving global health threats.
Speaking at the thirty-first meeting of the Regional Commission for the Certification (RCC) of Poliomyelitis Eradication in the Western Pacific, Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala, the WHO Regional Director for the area, expressed his enthusiasm for the occasion and welcomed Indonesia as the newest member. This addition marks a step forward in regional collaboration, strengthening the commitment to protecting children from this devastating disease.
Dr. Piukala highlighted the collective hard work over decades by health workers, public health experts, governments, and various partners, including Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and international organizations like UNICEF and the Gates Foundation. This collaboration has been essential in delivering life-saving vaccines throughout the region.
The director also emphasized the ongoing need for vigilance, stating, “Polio is entirely preventable – yet it resurfaces when vigilance falters.” He reiterated the importance of continuing vaccinations not only for polio but for all vaccine-preventable diseases. Celebrating Indonesia’s recent success in closing its circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) outbreak, Dr. Piukala underscored this as a testament to the resilience and dedication of collaborative health efforts.
As global health challenges intensify and with widespread immunity gaps becoming apparent, the focus remains on strengthening immunization efforts. The importance of ensuring that every child has access to vaccines will frame ongoing public health initiatives in the Pacific.
Looking ahead, the collaborative spirit within the Western Pacific region seems robust, fostering hope that through concerted efforts and mutual support, polio will one day be relegated to just a memory. Dr. Piukala’s remarks echo this sentiment: “One day, polio will be just a memory. Until then, we vaccinate.” This enduring commitment suggests a promising future for public health in the region.