This Friday, September 9, New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency against polio. The virus, which was detected in the wastewater, continues to spread. (source 1)
The state of emergency will allow more healthcare professionals to administer the vaccine against poliomyelitis, as obstetricians and pharmacists.
New York authorities called all residents to get vaccinated immediately. They hope to quickly increase vaccination rates, as they are still too low in some New York counties.
This is especially true in Rockland, where it is 60%. A first case had been detected there last July. After contaminating him, the man in question suffered from paralysis.
“If you or your child are not vaccinated or not up to date on vaccinations, the risk of paralytic disease is real,” said Mary T. Bassett, state health commissioner. I urge New Yorkers not to take any risks. Vaccination against polio is safe and effective: it protects almost everyone who receives the recommended doses from the disease. “
What is polio?
Polio is a highly contagious disease that invades the nervous system. The World Health Organization estimates that one in 200 infectionsleads irreversible paralysis. (source 2)
Thanks to the arrival of the vaccine, the number of cases has decreased over 99% since 1988. There remains today the only way to protect yourself from the disease. There is no treatment.
Vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus and polio (DTP) is mandatory for all children in France. Boosters are recommended at the age of 25, 45 and 65.
Polio has disappeared in France, but the fight against it is probably not over.
