Epidemiological Alert - Detection of Poliovirus (cVDPV3) in wastewater, considerations for the Region of the Americas - 14 October 2024

Following the confirmation of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 3 (cVDPV3) detected in wastewater samples collected in French Guiana, the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) reiterates to Member States the importance of achieving and maintaining polio vaccination coverage greater than 95% in each district or municipality to minimize the risk of an outbreak. Additionally, PAHO/WHO emphasizes the need to strengthen epidemiological surveillance of acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) and update national poliovirus outbreak preparedness and response plans. These measures ensure prompt and timely detection and response to the importation of wild poliovirus or vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV), or the emergence of VDPV in any country of the Region.