Kenya
Status: affected by circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus 2 (cVDPV2)
Three genetically-linked cVDPV2s were isolated from two acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) cases, with onset of paralysis on 26 and 27 May 2023, and one asymptomic community contact, from Fafi district, Garissa province. Genetic sequencing confirms the isolated cVDPV2 are linked to cVDPV2 currently circulating in Banadir, Somalia. The cases and community contact are all from Hagadera refugee camp, associated with frequent population movement with neighbouring Somalia.
Polio this week in Kenya
- No cVDPV2 cases were reported this week. There have been eight cases reported last year.
- No cVDPV2-positive environmental samples were reported this week.
International Health Regulations
Countries affected by poliovirus circulation are subject to temporary recommendations issued by the Emergency Committee of the International Health Regulations on Poliovirus, under the auspices of the Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The latest report by the Committee is effective as of August 2023).
Travel advice
WHO’s International Travel and Health recommends that all travellers to polio-affected areas be fully vaccinated against polio. Residents (and visitors for more than 4 weeks) from infected areas should receive an additional dose of OPV or inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) within 4 weeks to 12 months of travel.
