Nigeria TV Info – WHO Reports 54% Drop in Type 2 Poliovirus Cases Across Africa

Abuja, Nigeria – The World Health Organisation (WHO) has announced a significant decline in the number of African countries experiencing active type 2 poliovirus outbreaks, marking a major step forward in the continent’s journey toward eradication of the disease.

According to WHO, the number of affected countries dropped from 24 in 2024 to 14 in 2025, with total virus detections decreasing by 54 percent as of October this year.

In a statement to commemorate World Polio Day 2025, the WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Mohamed Janabi, commended the progress made across the continent, noting that Africa is making steady strides toward achieving a polio-free society.

Referencing this year’s theme, “End Polio: Every Child, Every Vaccine, Everywhere,” Janabi emphasized the need to ensure that no child is left behind in vaccination efforts.

> “Across the African Region, countries have continued to advance towards this goal. The progress in 2025 reflects stronger cross-border coordination, expanded surveillance, improved laboratory capacity, and the use of digital tools to increase reach, efficiency, and equity,” he stated.

Between January and October 2025, WHO reported that 15 African countries reached nearly 200 million children with at least one dose of the polio vaccine through supplementary immunisation rounds.

Furthermore, 13 countries conducted synchronised vaccination campaigns, even in challenging contexts. In the Horn of Africa, countries including Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia jointly vaccinated more than 18 million children in two consecutive rounds—an effort WHO described as a powerful demonstration of regional collaboration and commitment.

Dr. Janabi reaffirmed WHO’s continued support to African nations in their push to eliminate all forms of poliovirus, calling for sustained investment, vigilance, and community engagement to maintain the continent’s hard-earned progress.