Over the past three months, vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 has been found in wastewater in several European countries, raising concern among public health experts. According to reports, samples from Spain, Poland, Germany, the United Kingdom and Finland have tested positive for the virus. Despite no cases of paralysis being reported, health officials are on high alert. Experts suggest the widespread presence of the virus indicates unusual patterns of circulation.
Shahin Huseynov, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) European polio chief, described the situation as “very unconventional” during a press conference. The virus, identified as a derivative of the Zamfara strain circulating in Africa, has shown significant genetic variation. This has made it challenging for researchers to determine whether the virus was imported multiple times or circulated locally. According to WHO officials, genetic analysis shows that the virus has been circulating without detection for almost a year.
Virus found in many countries
Reportedly, it was first detected in Barcelona, Spain in mid-September during routine wastewater monitoring. Later, samples collected in Warsaw, Poland on October 22 also tested positive. Germany reported infections detected in seven cities, including Munich, Cologne and Hamburg, while England and Finland were added to the list of affected places in December. Public health agencies in these areas have increased surveillance and are reviewing vaccination records to identify gaps.
Sabrina Bacci, who oversees vaccine-preventable diseases at the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control, said it remains difficult to determine the exact time of the virus’s onset.
Concerns over spread and local transmission
According to the report, experts are concerned about its possible spread in countries with low vaccination rates such as Ukraine and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Despite high vaccination rates in most affected countries, unvaccinated individuals remain vulnerable. Reportedly, WHO sources suggest that the virus may be on the wane as happened during previous outbreaks in other countries. However, if transmission continues, discussions about reintroducing new oral vaccines may gain momentum.
According to sources, health officials are closely monitoring the situation, stressing the importance of eradicating polio worldwide.
