This Friday, September 9, New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency against poliomyelitis. The virus, which was detected in sewage, continues to spread. (source 1)
The state of emergency will allow more health professionals to administer the polio vaccine, such as midwives and pharmacists.
New York authorities have called all residents to get vaccinated immediately. They hope to increase vaccination rates quickly, as they are still too low in some New York counties.
This is particularly the case in Rockland, where it is 60%. A first case was detected there last July. Since his contamination, the man concerned has suffered from paralysis.
“If you or your child are unvaccinated or not up to date on your vaccinations, the risk of paralytic disease is real,” said Mary T. Bassett, state health commissioner. I urge New Yorkers not to accept any risk. Vaccination against polio is safe and effective — it protects against the disease almost everyone who receives the recommended doses. »
What is poliomyelitis?
Poliomyelitis is a highly contagious disease that invades the nervous system. The World Health Organization estimates that one in 200 infections leads to irreversible paralysis. (source 2)
Thanks to the arrival of the vaccine, the number of cases has decreased over 99% since 1988. It remains today the only way to protect oneself from the disease. There is no treatment.
Vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus and poliomyelitis (DTP) is mandatory for all infants in France. Boosters are recommended at ages 25, 45 and 65.
Poliomyelitis has disappeared in France, but the fight against it is probably not over.
2022-09-10 07:00:00
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