The Western Pacific region is celebrating a remarkable milestone of 25 years without indigenous wild poliovirus, a feat recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO). This achievement highlights the tireless efforts of member states to eradicate polio, while also emphasizing the need for vigilance against emerging global health threats.
During 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, expressed his enthusiasm for this significant occasion and welcomed Indonesia as the newest member. This addition enhances regional collaboration and reinforces the commitment to safeguarding children from the devastating impacts of polio.
Dr. Piukala acknowledged the collective dedication of health workers, public health experts, governments, and various partners, including Australia, New Zealand, Japan, UNICEF, and the Gates Foundation. Their collaboration has been crucial in distributing life-saving vaccines across the region.
The WHO director highlighted the critical need for ongoing vigilance, stating, “Polio is entirely preventable – yet it resurfaces when vigilance falters.” He stressed the importance of maintaining vaccination efforts not only for polio but for all vaccine-preventable diseases. Celebrating Indonesia’s recent achievement in overcoming its circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) outbreak, Dr. Piukala underscored this success as a reflection of the resilience and commitment within the health community.
As global health challenges escalate and immunity gaps become more evident, the emphasis will continue to be on enhancing immunization efforts. Ensuring that every child has access to vaccines remains a top priority for ongoing public health initiatives in the Pacific.
Looking forward, the cooperative spirit in the Western Pacific appears to be strong, fostering optimism that through united efforts and shared support, polio will eventually become a thing of the past. Dr. Piukala’s hopeful words resonate: “One day, polio will be just a memory. Until then, we vaccinate.” This ongoing commitment paints a promising future for public health in the region.