Why polio when there are so many other important diseases that affect many more Nigerians (ie measles, malaria and HIV)?
• Polio is a communicable disease which can’t be controlled and is one of only a few diseases which can be completely eradicated (as was the case with smallpox). • By eradicating polio, children across Nigeria and the world will benefit — no child need ever again know the pain of polio-paralysis. • Most diseases (ie HIV and malaria) can’t be eradicated. The tools to eradicate these are not available. • A safe and effective vaccine is available to protect children. The virus does not survive for extended periods of time in the environment, and while it is contagious, its infection period is relatively short. • Our efforts to eradicate polio can and should lay the groundwork for addressing other important health and social issues for Nigeria. Polio eradication activities are also helping to strengthen routine health services. For example, an active disease surveillance network has been established in Nigeria into which other diseases – including measles – are now being integrated. • Focu
Related Questions
- Diseases like measles, polio, whooping cough and diphtheria have already disappeared from most parts of Australia. Why do we need to keep vaccinating children against these diseases?
- Why polio when there are so many other important diseases that affect many more Nigerians (ie measles, malaria and HIV)?
- Why the emphasis on polio and not other childhood killer diseases like malaria, typhoid, cholera?
