Integration is one of five key strategic objectives in the 2022-2029 Polio Eradication strategy.

Integration Activities to Date have Focused on Campaign Quality, Routine Immunisation and Integrated Service Delivery

Polio is currently the only Public Health Emergency of International Concern operating within an International Health Regulations (IHR) framework with Member State accountability. As the Interruption goal gets closer the focus will increasingly shift to working with partners to strengthen Routine Immunisation systems and build population immunity. This will complement efforts to improve surveillance system performance to the level required for certification and prepare emergency response capacity for transition – to maintain a polio free world.

Integration Priorities

As of July 2023, the GPEI has strengthened its global integration function, undertaking a renewed effort to support integration activities and better document these efforts. The program provides enhanced program management and coordination support to regions and countries carrying out these activities, as well as greater transparency around the opportunities for integration at all levels of the GPEI.

As countries move closer to Interruption, there will be an increasing focus on working with partners to strengthen RI systems and build population immunity

GPEI recommends different approaches to strengthening RI activities depending on country epidemiological needs and health system capacity and resources. This work has commenced in 2024 and will accelerate in 2025.

For more information on Integration, including current examples of Integration activities in the Endemics and Consequential Geographies, please access the latest fact sheet from December 2024.