vaccination-francisco-moreno/” title=”"Health authorities have neglected …": Francisco Moreno”>polio Virus Resurfaces, Prompting Global Health Concerns
A disease once on the verge of eradication-polio-is experiencing a concerning resurgence, triggering alarms among global health experts. Recent reports highlight cases in regions previously declared polio-free, a stark reminder that hard-won victories against infectious diseases are not permanent and require sustained vigilance. This resurgence isn’t merely a ancient footnote; it represents a tangible threat to children worldwide and underscores the critical importance of vaccination programs.
The re-emergence of polio, despite decades of prosperous vaccination efforts, demands immediate attention. The virus, wich can cause irreversible paralysis, especially in young children, was close to being eliminated globally. However, declining vaccination rates, coupled with factors like conflict and logistical challenges in reaching vulnerable populations, have created opportunities for the virus to regain a foothold. Experts warn that unless vaccination coverage is dramatically increased and maintained, the progress made towards eradication coudl be reversed, potentially leading to widespread outbreaks.
Tonight, Ideas in the night. Diaspora. beyond borders on Radio Romania Cultural will delve into this critical issue with leading specialists. Dr. Evelina Moraru, professor emeritus at UMF “Grigore T. POPA Iași” and a pediatrician specializing in allergology-immunology, gastroenterology, hepatology, and pediatric pneumology, will join the discussion. Also participating is Prof. univ. Dr. Doina Azoicăi, doctor of medical sciences, head of the Epidemiology Discipline at UMF Iași, President of the Epidemiology Commission of the Ministry of Health (2014-2025), and President of the Romanian Society of Epidemiology (2018-2022), who initiated the “Certificate in Vaccinology” training program. Rounding out the panel is Dr. Cristian Apetrei, PhD in microbiology and professor of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, USA, a lecturer in the Romanian vaccinology program.
The program, airing from 21:10 to 22:00 on www.radioromaniacultural.ro, directed by Corina Negrea, will explore the factors driving this resurgence and the strategies needed to prevent further spread. The discussion will emphasize the science behind vaccination and its role in protecting communities from this debilitating disease.
