The Ministry of Health has announced the detection of a circulating Vaccine Derived Poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) in an environmental sample from Koforidua, the capital of the Eastern Region.
This discovery, revealed through routine surveillance by the Polio Laboratory at the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, was confirmed in a press release dated September 17. Health Minister Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye stated that the sample, collected on August 20, was identified as cVDPV2 on September 5.
Dr. Okoe-Boye has labeled the finding a “public health emergency” and stressed the need for urgent measures to contain and prevent further spread of the virus.
In response to the detection of the cVDPV2 virus, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service, has launched field investigations to trace the virus’s origin and evaluate its potential spread, including to human populations. Enhanced surveillance measures have been put in place for more rigorous monitoring.
The public is advised to follow precautionary measures, such as practicing thorough handwashing, maintaining proper sanitation, and safely disposing of faeces.
Parents are also encouraged to ensure that their children complete their vaccination schedules to bolster immunity against the virus.
Read the press release below:
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