Polio Risk Remains in Indonesia Despite Eradication Success, Health Minister Warns
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Jakarta, Indonesia – Indonesia has successfully halted the spread of polio, a feat achieved through widespread immunization efforts and community dedication, but Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin cautioned against complacency, citing ongoing risks due to immunization gaps in several provinces. “We have succeeded in stopping the spread of polio in Indonesia thanks to the dedication of health workers, the commitment of parents and all members of society so that children are immunized, and the support of partners.Every child has the right to receive protection. We must continue to work together so that polio does not return by ensuring that all children receive complete age-appropriate polio immunization,” Sadikin stated recently in Jakarta.
Polio, a highly contagious and possibly deadly viral disease, can cause irreversible paralysis, primarily affecting children under five. while eradicated in most of the world, the virus persists in some regions, posing a continued threat through importation and outbreaks, particularly in areas with low immunization coverage. The resurgence of polio cases globally underscores the critical importance of maintaining high vaccination rates and vigilant surveillance.Without a cure, prevention through immunization remains the only effective defense against this debilitating disease.
Recognizing the symptoms
Polio symptoms vary significantly, ranging from no noticeable effects to severe complications.Many individuals infected with the virus experience no illness at all.When symptoms do appear, they can initially resemble the flu, but may worsen over time.
symptoms, progressing from mild to severe, include:
* Flu-like symptoms: Fever, fatigue, sore throat, headache
* Digestive problems: Nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach ache
* Signs of swelling of the brain and spinal cord: Severe headache, sensitivity to light or touch, stiff neck
* Effects on the nervous system: Pain or pins and needles in the arms and legs (paresthesia), muscle spasms, weakness, or paralysis that can affect movement, breathing, swallowing, or speaking.
How Polio Spreads
Polio is transmitted through several routes, emphasizing the importance of hygiene and sanitation:
* Not washing hands after using the bathroom or contact with feces.
* Consuming or swallowing contaminated water.
* swimming in contaminated water, including swimming pools.
* Eating food that has come into contact with contaminated water.
* Touching surfaces contaminated with the virus.
* Close contact with individuals infected with polio, even those who are asymptomatic.
Prevention is Key
The most effective way to protect against polio is vaccination,typically administered during childhood.Anyone can contract polio,but children who are not fully vaccinated are at the highest risk. Teenagers and adults who have not been vaccinated or previously infected are also susceptible. Individuals traveling to or residing in areas where polio remains prevalent face an increased risk of infection.
(dce)
