SAGE report and recommendations published
The final report and recommendations from the March meeting of the Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on immunization (SAGE) have been published. On polio eradication, SAGE had taken stock of progress toward eradication and examined the critical decisions shaping the polio endgame. Informed by key analysis of the SAGE Polio Working Group from February, discussions covered programme performance and governance, planning for eventual bivalent OPV cessation, advances in novel OPV and next-generation IPV manufacturing, and how evolving vaccine strategies can best protect children while safeguarding a polio-free future. The group also began formulating recommendations on the optimal role of IPV and bOPV in routine immunization as the world prepares for the final phase of eradication.
UNICEF ExD video message on delivering aid to most vulnerable children of the world
Watch this video by UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell, highlighting why it is so critical to reach the most vulnerable children with life-saving health interventions, including polio vaccines.
Summary of new polioviruses this week:
More information on the countries that have reported cases and/or environmental samples this week.