Only 12 Cases of Wild Polio Were Reported in 2023

We are very close to eradicating all three types of wild poliovirus

Wild poliovirus has three serotypes. The three serotypes are distinct types of poliovirus with protein structures that differ sufficiently that protection from one doesn’t protect from the other.

The world has eradicated wild poliovirus serotypes 2 and 3.

• The last case of wild poliovirus serotype 2 was in 1999 in India, and the WHO declared it eradicated in 2015
• The last case of wild poliovirus serotype 3 was seen in 2012 in Nigeria, and it was declared eradicated in 2019

The world is, therefore, very close to eradicating all serotypes of wild poliovirus globally.

As shown in the map above, only two countries — Afghanistan and Pakistan — are still endemic for wild poliovirus serotype 1 (WPV1). In 2023, only six cases of wild polio were reported in Afghanistan and another six in Pakistan.

By testing widely to identify potential cases, working with local communities in hard-to-reach areas and at borders, and improving vaccination rates and sanitation, this goal is within reach.