Daijiworld Media Network – Port Moresby

Port Moresby, May 16: Papua New Guinea is grappling with a fresh outbreak of polio after two children tested positive during routine health screenings, prompting authorities to launch an emergency national vaccination campaign.

The outbreak was confirmed after sewage testing in Lae, the country’s second-largest city, revealed the presence of the virus. Health minister Elias Kapavore described the situation as “serious but manageable” and called for swift action to curb the spread.

“We’ve dealt with this before and know what works,” Kapavore said, referring to a 2018 outbreak that left 26 people paralysed.

Papua New Guinea, with a population of nearly 12 million, was declared polio-free in 2000. However, low immunisation rates among children continue to leave many vulnerable to the highly contagious disease, which can cause permanent paralysis or even death in severe cases.

Dr Veera Mendonca, UNICEF’s country representative, stressed the urgency of boosting immunisation coverage. “While the focus right now is on stopping this outbreak, we must take this opportunity to boost routine immunisation to 90 per cent and protect children long-term,” she said.

UNICEF is working closely with the PNG government to procure and distribute polio vaccines, strengthen disease surveillance, and raise awareness about the importance of vaccination.

Though polio has largely been eradicated globally, it remains endemic in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Sporadic outbreaks elsewhere highlight the need for sustained immunisation efforts.

With global health agencies stepping in, Papua New Guinea hopes to quickly contain the virus and prevent a repeat of past outbreaks.