Polio Resurgence: Risk to Ireland’s Polio-Free Status

A global resurgence of polio poses a risk to Ireland’s polio-free status, according to the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC). While Ireland has maintained polio-free status for decades, ongoing outbreaks in other parts of the world and declining vaccination rates raise concerns about potential re-emergence of the disease.

What is Polio?

Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a highly infectious viral disease primarily affecting children under five years of age. The virus targets nerve cells in the spinal cord and brainstem, which control muscle movement, potentially leading to paralysis or even death. It is transmitted via the faecal-oral route or, less commonly, through contaminated food or water. [1]

History of Polio in Ireland

Polio was a significant public health concern in Ireland until the introduction of the polio vaccine in 1957. The highest number of cases recorded in the Republic of Ireland was in 1956, with 499 cases detected. Following widespread vaccination, the number of cases dramatically declined, and the last reported case was in 1984. [1] Europe was certified polio-free in 2003. [4]

Current Global Situation

In 2025, polio cases were confirmed in multiple states, with key countries reporting cases or positive environmental samples including Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nigeria, Chad, Yemen, Ethiopia, Angola, Benin, Niger, Sudan, Djibouti and Burkina Faso. [1] The majority of polio cases worldwide are now caused by vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV), a rare complication of the oral polio vaccine (OPV). [4]

Vaccination in Ireland

Ireland has a comprehensive vaccination program to protect against polio. Children receive the six-in-one vaccine, which includes polio protection, at two, four, and six months of age, with an additional dose at 13 months for babies born on or after October 1st, 2024. [1] The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a 95% uptake rate for polio vaccination.

Declining Vaccination Rates

While national vaccine uptake for three doses of the six-in-one vaccine at 24 months increased from 86.4% in 1999 to 95.9% in 2013, it has been declining since 2021. Uptake was 90.6% in the first quarter of last year. Similarly, uptake of the four-in-one booster vaccine in children aged four to five years has been below the WHO-recommended 95% threshold since the 2011/2012 school year, with a rate of 89.9% in the 2023/2024 school year. [1]

Support for Polio Survivors

Polio Survivors Ireland provides practical support and a listening ear to the approximately 5,000 individuals in Ireland living with Post Polio Syndrome or Late Effects of Polio. [2] The organization has over 1,000 members and advocates for proper support and services for survivors. [2]

HPSC Conclusion

The HPSC emphasizes that Ireland has robust structures and systems in place for polio prevention and early detection. [1] However, the global resurgence of polio highlights the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage to prevent the virus from being reintroduced to Ireland through travel. [1]