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Objective To assess the stability of improvements in global respiratory virus surveillance in countries supported by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) after reductions in CDC funding and with the stress of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Methods We assessed whether national influenza surveillance systems of CDC-funded countries: (i) continued to analyse as many specimens between 2013 and 2021; (ii) participated in activities of the World Health Organization's (WHO) Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System; (iii) tested enough specimens to detect rare events or signals of unusual activity; and (iv) demonstrated stability before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. We used CDC budget records and data from the WHO Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System. Findings While CDC reduced per-country influenza funding by about 75% over 10 years, the number of specimens tested annually remained stable (mean 2261). Reporting varied substantially by country and transmission zone. Countries funded by CDC accounted for 71% (range 61-75%) of specimens included in WHO consultations on the composition of influenza virus vaccines. In 2019, only eight of the 17 transmission zones sent enough specimens to WHO collaborating centres before the vaccine composition meeting to reliably identify antigenic variants. Conclusion Great progress has been made in the global understanding of influenza trends and seasonality. To optimize surveillance to identify atypical influenza viruses, and to integrate molecular testing, sequencing and reporting of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 into existing systems, funding must continue to support these efforts. Objectif Evaluer la stabilite des ameliorations en matiere de surveillance mondiale des virus respiratoires dans les pays soutenus par les Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) des Etats-Unis d'Amerique, apres les baisses de financement des CDC et avec le stress cause par la pandemie de maladie a coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). Methodes Nous avons examine les mecanismes nationaux de surveillance de la grippe dans les pays finances par les CDC pour determiner: (i) s'ils continuaient a analyser le meme nombre d'echantillons entre 2013 et 2021; (ii) s'ils participaient a des activites du Systeme mondial de surveillance de la grippe et de riposte mis en place par l'Organisation mondiale de la Sante (OMS); (iii) s'ils testaient suffisamment d'echantillons pour detecter des evenements rares ou des signes d'activite inhabituelle; et enfin, (iv) s'ils faisaient preuve de stabilite avant et pendant la pandemie de maladie a coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). Nous avons utilise les documents budgetaires des CDC, ainsi que les donnees du Systeme mondial OMS de surveillance de la grippe et de riposte. Resultats Bien que les CDC aient reduit d'environ 75% leur financement aux differents pays pour etudier la grippe au cours de la decennie ecoulee, le nombre d'echantillons testes chaque annee est reste stable (2261 en moyenne). Les signalements variaient fortement en fonction du pays et de la zone de transmission. Les pays finances par les CDC representaient 71% (plage comprise entre 61% et 75%) des echantillons inclus dans les consultations de l'OMS sur la composition des vaccins contre les virus grippaux. En 2019, seulement huit des 17 zones de transmission ont envoye suffisamment d'echantillons aux centres collaborant avec l'OMS pour identifier avec certitude les variants antigeniques avant la reunion sur la composition des vaccins. Conclusion Des progres considerables ont ete realises en matiere de comprehension des tendances et du caractere saisonnier de la grippe. Neanmoins, le financement doit se poursuivre afin d'ameliorer la surveillance et, par consequent, d'identifier les virus grippaux atypiques, mais aussi d'integrer les tests moleculaires, le sequencage et le signalement du coronavirus 2 du syndrome respiratoire aigu severe dans les systemes existants. Objetivo Valorar la estabilidad de las mejoras en la vigilancia mundial de los virus respiratorios en los paises que reciben apoyo de los Centros para el Control y la Prevencion de Enfermedades (CDC) de los Estados Unidos despues de las reducciones en la financiacion de los CDC y ante la situacion de estres por la pandemia de la enfermedad por coronavirus de 2019 (COVID-19). Metodos Se analizo si los sistemas nacionales de vigilancia de la influenza de los paises que reciben fondos de los CDC: i) seguian analizando la misma cantidad de muestras entre 2013 y 2021; ii) participaban en las actividades del Sistema Mundial de Vigilancia y Respuesta a la Gripe de la Organizacion Mundial de la Salud (OMS); iii) analizaban suficientes muestras para detectar acontecimientos raros o senales de actividad inusual; y iv) demostraban estabilidad antes y durante la pandemia de la enfermedad por coronavirus de 2019 (COVID-19). Se utilizaron los registros de presupuesto de los CDC y los datos del Sistema Mundial de Vigilancia y Respuesta a la Gripe de la OMS. Resultados Aunque los CDC redujeron los fondos destinados a la gripe por pais en casi un 75 % a lo largo de 10 anos, el numero de muestras analizadas al ano se mantuvo estable (media de 2261). Los informes variaron de manera sustancial segun el pais y la zona de transmision. Los paises que recibieron financiacion de los CDC representaron el 71 % (rango entre el 61 y el 75 %) de las muestras incluidas en las consultas de la OMS sobre la composicion de las vacunas antigripales. En 2019, solo ocho de las 17 zonas de transmision enviaron suficientes muestras a los centros colaboradores de la OMS antes de la reunion sobre la composicion de la vacuna para identificar de una manera fiable las variantes antigenicas. Conclusion Se ha logrado un gran progreso en la comprension global de las tendencias y la estacionalidad de la gripe. Para optimizar la vigilancia con el fin de identificar los virus atipicos de la gripe e integrar las pruebas moleculares, la secuenciacion y la notificacion del coronavirus del sindrome respiratorio agudo grave de tipo 2 en los sistemas existentes, la financiacion debe seguir apoyando estos esfuerzos. [phrase omitted], Introduction Global surveillance of influenza guides prevention and control decisions and monitors pandemic threats. Investment in global capacity-building for influenza surveillance was prompted by concerns about the pandemic potential of [...]

Since 2004, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Influenza Division (ID) has supported seven countries in the Eastern Mediterranean region and the World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean to establish and strengthen influenza surveillance. The substantial growth of influenza surveillance capacities in the region demonstrates a commitment by governments to strengthen national programs and contribute to global surveillance. The full value of surveillance data is in its use to guide local public health decisions. CDC ID remains committed to supporting the region and supporting partners to translate surveillance data into policies and programs effectively., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest declared., (Published 2023. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Neisseria meningitidis and N. gonorrhoeae characteristically occupy distinct niches in the human body despite evolving from a common ancestor (1). N. meningitidis bacteria often inhabit the nasopharynx of humans as [...]

Although the risk of developing Legionnaires' disease is generally highest among persons who are [greater than or equal to]50 years of age, rates in the United States have been increasing [...]

During pandemics, special risk populations are often more vulnerable to severe disease and death. Pregnant women experienced higher mortality and critical illness rates during the 2009 influenza pandemic (1), the [...]

Monkeypox virus (MPXV), represented by 2 virus clades and several subclades with unique genetic, pathogenic, and geographic characteristics (1), is increasingly in the scientific and public spotlight. Although clade II [...]

Interest in global health has increased in the 21st Century, driven by new challenges to health security, as well as the need for intensified responses to older concerns such as [...]

Adult patients with chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) are considered high risk group who are more likely to experience worse clinical outcomes if they acquire viral or bacterial infections. Vaccination is the best preventive tool to reduce the risk of infection and disease occurrence and to reduce the level of severity of complications associated with the various vaccine-preventable infections. These guidelines were developed by the Saudi Thoracic Society task force to emphasize the critical importance of improving the vaccine coverage rates in adult patients with CRD. They are intended to serve as a reference for healthcare practitioners managing CRD patients. The guidelines aimed to review the current knowledge related to vaccination efficacy in adult patients with CRD, based on the recent evidence and recommendations. Integrating the administration of the recommended vaccines in routine healthcare, such as during outpatient visits or before hospital discharge, is crucial for improving the vaccination rates in high-risk patients. The key strategies to address this public health priority include simplifying vaccination guidelines to enhance their accessibility and implementation by healthcare providers, increasing awareness in both the patients and healthcare providers that vaccines are not only intended for children. Additional strategies include maintaining continuous surveillance and advance research to discover novel vaccines. This approach aims to expand the range of preventable diseases and improve overall health and well-being. Vaccine hesitancy remains a significant challenge that necessitates a clear understanding of the community concerns. Providing appropriate education and communication, as well as addressing these concerns, are the crucial steps toward improving vaccine acceptance and uptake. By implementing these guidelines and multifaceted strategies, healthcare systems can optimize vaccine coverage and protection for patients with CRD, reduce the burden of vaccine-preventable complications, and improve the clinical outcomes in this vulnerable population. Keywords: Adults, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic respiratory diseases, COVID-19, herpes zoster, influenza, pneumococcal, respiratory syncytial vaccine, vaccine, Author(s): Mohammed Al Ghobain (corresponding author) [1]; Fayssal Farahat [2]; Mohammed Zeitouni [3]; Waleed Alsowayan [4]; Sultan Al-Awfi [5]; Ali AlBarrak [6]; Shareefah Al-Basheri [7]; Fatmah Alhabeeb [8]; Esam H. [...]

Since the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) began in 1988, wild poliovirus (WPV) types 2 and 3 have been eradicated and the annual numbers of polio cases have decreased by >99.9%. Transmission of WPV type 1 (WPV1) remains endemic in Afghanistan and Pakistan, 2 countries that share a 1600 miles (2600 km) border. This report describes immunization and surveillance activities and progress towards polio eradication in Afghanistan during January 2023-September 2024. As of 1 November, Afghanistan had reported 23 WPV1 cases in 2024, with onset between January- and 30 September 2024. During the 3 previous years, 12 WPV1 cases were reported, including 6 in 2023. The Taliban took control nationwide in August 2021, allowing broader geographical access for poliovirus vaccination campaigns since 2021. Multiple challenges have affected polio eradication activities in Afghanistan. These include mandated repatriation of approximately 1 million Afghans by Pakistan beginning in lates 2023, the ongoing humanitarian crisis that limits the effectiveness of international agencies; constraints on the polio programme imposed by the authorities; and increased restrictions on female public participation, in vaccination activities. House-to-house vaccination coverage reached 90%-98% of children in June-July 2024. In 2021, the authorities had progressively lifted restrictions on house-to-house campaigns; however, national restrictions were again imposed in August 2024. Nationwide house-to-house visits and strengthening of the routine childhood immunization programme would ensure that every vulnerable child is vaccinated and ensure progress in polio eradication in Afghanistan. Depuis le lancement de l'Initiative mondiale pour l'eradication de la poliomyelite (IMEP) en 1988, les poliovirus sauvages (PVS) de types 2 et 3 ont ete eradiques et le nombre annuel de cas de poliomyelite a diminue de >99,9%. La transmission du PVS de type 1 (PVS1) reste endemique en Afghanistan et au Pakistan, deux pays qui possedent une frontiere commune longue de 1600 miles (2600 km). Le present rapport decrit les activites de vaccination et de surveillance menees et les progres accomplis vers l'eradication de la poliomyelite en Afghanistan entre janvier 2023 et septembre 2024. Entre janvier 2024 et le 1er novembre 2024, l'Afghanistan avait notifie 23 cas de PVS1 (date d'apparition des symptomes comprise entre janvier 2024 et le 30 septembre 2024). Au cours des 3 annees precedentes, 12 cas de PVS1 avaient ete signales, dont 6 en 2023. Les Taliban ont pris le pouvoir en Afghanistan en aout 2021, permettant aux campagnes de vaccination contre la poliomyelite de beneficier d'un acces geographique plus large depuis 2021. Les activites d'eradication de la poliomyelite se heurtent a de multiples defis, notamment: le retour force d'environ 1 million d'Afghans depuis le Pakistan; la crise humanitaire en cours qui limite l'efficacite des institutions internationales; les contraintes imposees par les autorites au programme de lutte contre la poliomyelite; et des restrictions croissantes a la participation des femmes a la vie publique, y compris dans les equipes de vaccination. Les campagnes de vaccination porte-a-porte de juin-juillet 2024 ont permis une couverture de 90%-98% chez les enfants. En 2021, les autorites avaient progressivement leve les restrictions qui pesaient sur les campagnes de vaccination porte-a-porte. Cependant, en aout 2024, elles ont brusquement reinstaure des restrictions a l'echelle nationale. La conduite d'activites de porte-a-porte au niveau national, de pair avec le renforcement de la vaccination systematique des enfants, contribuerait a ce que chaque enfant vulnerable puisse etre vaccine et ouvrirait la voie a l'eradication de la poliomyelite en Afghanistan., Introduction After the GPEI was launched in 1988, WPV types 2 and type 3 were eradicated, and the annual incidence of poliomyelitis decreased by >99.9%. WPV1 type 1 transmission remains, [...]

Measles vaccination effectively prevents measles, a highly contagious disease that can cause severe complications and death and requires high population immunity to interrupt transmission. This report describes progress in measles elimination during 2000-2023. During 2000-2023, an estimated 60.3 million deaths due to measles were averted by vaccination. Despite commitment by all 6 WHO regions to eliminate measles, however, no region has successfully achieved and maintained measles elimination as of the end of 2023. During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, estimated worldwide coverage with a first dose of measles-containing vaccine (MCV1) decreased to 81%, the lowest rate since 2008. MCV1 coverage improved to 83% in 2022 but was unchanged in 2023. During 2022-2023, the estimated number of measles cases increased by 20% globally, from 8 645 000 to 10 341 000; and the number of countries that experienced large or disruptive outbreaks increased from 36 to 57. The estimated number of deaths due to measles decreased by 8% as compared with 2022, from 116 800 to 107 500 in 2023, because of an increased number of cases in countries with a lower risk for death. The stagnation in MCV1 coverage means that millions of children remain unprotected, leading to increases in the numbers of cases and outbreaks. Measles-containing vaccine (MCV) coverage is lower and measles incidence is higher in low-income countries and in fragile, conflict-affected and vulnerable (FCV) settings, which exacerbates inequity. Urgent, targeted efforts are necessary to ensure that all children receive 2 MCV doses and that surveillance is strengthened, hastening progress towards measles elimination. La vaccination contre la rougeole permet de prevenir efficacement cette maladie tres contagieuse qui peut entrainer des complications severes et la mort, et dont l'interruption de la transmission necessite une forte immunite collective. Le present rapport decrit les progres accomplis vers l'elimination de la rougeole au cours de la periode 2000-2023. On estime que 60,3 millions de deces dus a la rougeole ont ete evites grace a la vaccination entre 2000 et 2023. Malgre l'engagement des 6 Regions de l'OMS a eliminer la rougeole, aucune d'entre elles n'a reussi a atteindre et a maintenir cet objectif a la fin de l'annee 2023. Le present rapport decrit les progres accomplis vers l'elimination de la rougeole au cours de la periode 2000-2023. Pendant la pandemie de maladie a coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19), la couverture mondiale estimee par la premiere dose de vaccin a valence rougeole (MCV1) est tombee a 81%, le taux le plus bas depuis 2008. Elle a progresse en 2022 pour atteindre 83%, mais est restee inchangee en 2023. En 2022-2023, le nombre estime de cas de rougeole a augmente de 20% a l'echelle mondiale, passant de 8 645 000 a 10 341 000, et le nombre de pays confrontes a des flambees epidemiques de grande ampleur ou perturbatrices est passe de 36 a 57. Le nombre estime de deces dus a la rougeole a diminue de 8% par rapport a 2022, passant de 116 800 a 107 500 en 2023, en raison d'une augmentation du nombre de cas dans des pays ou le risque de deces est plus faible. La stagnation de la couverture par la MCV1 signifie que des millions d'enfants restent sans protection, ce qui entraine une augmentation du nombre de cas et de flambees epidemiques. La couverture par le vaccin antirougeoleux (MCV) est plus faible et l'incidence de la rougeole plus elevee dans les pays a faible revenu et dans les zones en situation de fragilite, de conflit ou de vulnerabilite, ce qui exacerbe les inegalites. Afin d'accelerer les progres vers l'elimination de la rougeole, il est urgent de deployer des efforts cibles pour que tous les enfants recoivent 2 doses de vaccin MCV et pour renforcer la surveillance., Introduction Measles is a highly contagious disease that can cause severe complications and death. (1) Vaccination is highly effective in preventing measles and, during the past 50 years, has saved [...]

In 2020, the World Health Assembly endorsed the Immunization Agenda 2030 (IA2030), a 10-year strategy to reduce vaccine-preventable disease (VPD)-associated morbidity and mortality. The IA2030 goals include improving equitable vaccination coverage, halving the number of unimmunized (zero-dose) children and increasing the introduction of new and underutilized vaccines. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic disrupted health systems worldwide, compromising years of childhood vaccination achievements and putting global public health goals at risk. This report presents trends in WHO and United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) estimates of routine vaccination coverage during 2023 in the 194 WHO Member States. During 2022-2023, global coverage with a first and third dose of diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis-containing vaccine (DTPcv) (89% and 84%, respectively) and a first dose of measles-containing vaccine (MCV) (83%) stagnated and remained lower than pre-pandemic levels. The 31 WHO Member States with fragile, conflict and vulnerable (FCV) settings are home to more than half of the world's 14.5 million children who have not received a first DTPcv dose. Introduction of new and underutilized vaccines, such as a second MCV dose in the African Region, have improved countries' overall protection against VPDs. Accelerating country-specific routine immunization and catch-up vaccination programmes to reach unvaccinated and incompletely vaccinated children, especially those living in FCV settings, is critical to reducing morbidity and mortality associated with VPDs. En 2020, l'Assemblee mondiale de la Sante a approuve le Programme pour la vaccination a l'horizon 2030 (IA2030), une strategie sur 10 ans visant a reduire la morbidite et la mortalite associees aux maladies evitables par la vaccination. L'IA2030 a pour objectifs d'ameliorer la couverture vaccinale equitable, de reduire de moitie le nombre d'enfants non vaccines (enfants dits <>) et d'accroitre l'introduction de vaccins nouveaux ou sous-utilises. La pandemie de maladie a coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) a perturbe les systemes de sante dans le monde entier, compromettant des annees de progres dans le domaine de la vaccination des enfants et mettant en peril les objectifs mondiaux de sante publique. Ce rapport presente les tendances des estimations de l'OMS et du Fonds des Nations Unies pour l'enfance (UNICEF) de la couverture de la vaccination systematique en 2023 dans les 194 Etats Membres de l'OMS. En 2022-2023, la couverture mondiale par une premiere et une troisieme dose du vaccin antidiphterique-antitetanique-anticoquelucheux (DTC) (89% et 84%, respectivement) et par une premiere dose du vaccin antirougeoleux (MCV) (83%) a stagne et est restee inferieure aux niveaux observes avant la pandemie. Les 31 Etats Membres de l'OMS en situation de fragilite, de conflit ou de vulnerabilite abritent plus de la moitie des 14,5 millions d'enfants dans le monde qui n'ont pas recu leur premiere dose de DTC. L'introduction de vaccins nouveaux ou sous-utilises, tels qu'une deuxieme dose de MCV dans la Region africaine, a ameliore la protection globale contre les maladies evitables par la vaccination dans les pays. Pour reduire la morbidite et la mortalite associees a ces maladies, il est essentiel d'accelerer la mise en oeuvre des programmes de vaccination systematique et de vaccination de rattrapage specifiques a chaque pays pour atteindre les enfants non vaccines et incompletement vaccines, en particulier ceux qui vivent dans des contextes de fragilite, de conflit ou de vulnerabilite., Introduction In 1974, WHO launched the Expanded Programme on Immunization for delivering vaccines during the first year of life to protect every child against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis, measles and [...]

The World Health Organization initiated a global surveillance system for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in 2015, and the pilot surveillance is ongoing. The real-time RT-PCR RSV assays (Pan-RSV and duplex assays) developed by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are applied as the standard assays. To introduce these as standard assays in Japan, their practicality was evaluated using 2261 specimens obtained from pediatric inpatients in Japan, which were collected from 2018 to 2021. Although the Pan-RSV and duplex assays had similar analytical sensitivities, they yielded 630 (27.9%) and 786 (34.8%) RSV-positive specimens, respectively (p < 0.001). Although sequencing analysis showed mismatches in the reverse primer used in the Pan-RSV assay, these mismatches did not affect its analytical sensitivity. The analysis of read numbers of RSV isolates from air–liquid interface culture of human bronchial/tracheal epithelial cells showed that the duplex assay had a greater number of reads than did the Pan-RSV assay. Therefore, the duplex assay has superior detection performance compared with the Pan-RSV assay, but the two assays have similar analytical sensitivities.

WHO convenes technical consultations (1) in February and September each year to recommend viruses for inclusion in influenza vaccines (2) for the northern hemisphere (NH) and southern hemisphere (SH) influenza [...]

Circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses (cVDPVs) can emerge and lead to outbreaks of paralytic polio as well as asymptomatic transmission in communities with a high percentage of under-vaccinated children. Data from the WHO Polio Information System (POLIS) and the Global Polio Laboratory Network (GPLN) are used below to describe global polio outbreaks due to cVDPVs during January 2023-June 2024. This updates previous reports. During the reporting period, 74 cVDPV outbreaks were detected in 39 countries, predominantly in Africa. Of the outbreaks, 47 (64%) were new and were detected in 30 (77%) of the 39 countries. Three countries reported cVDPV type 1 (cVDPV1) outbreaks; 39 reported cVDPV type 2 (cVDPV2) outbreaks; and 2 countries reported co-circulating cVDPV1 and cVDPV2. Seventy cVDPV2 outbreaks were reported in 38 countries. cVDPV transmission lasted for >1 year into 2024 in 15 countries. In Nigeria and Somalia, countries with security-compromised areas, persistent cVDPV2 transmission has spread to neighbouring countries. Delayed implementation of outbreak response and low-quality campaigns have resulted in further international spread. Countries can control cVDPV outbreaks with timely allocation of resources to implement prompt, high-quality responses after outbreak confirmation. Stopping cVDPV transmission requires vaccination to increase population immunity; this requires overcoming barriers to vaccinating children. Des emergences de poliovirus circulants derives d'une souche vaccinale (PVDVc) peuvent se produire et donner lieu a des flambees epidemiques de poliomyelite paralytique et a une transmission asymptomatique dans les communautes comptant une forte proportion d'enfants sous-vaccines. Le present rapport, qui est une mise a jour des rapports precedents, s'appuie sur les donnees du Systeme d'information de l'OMS sur la poliomyelite (POLIS) et du Reseau mondial de laboratoires pour la poliomyelite (RMLP) pour decrire les flambees epidemiques de poliomyelite dues aux PVDVc qui sont survenues dans le monde entre janvier 2023 et juin 2024. Au cours de la periode couverte par ce rapport, 74 flambees de PVDVc ont ete detectees dans 39 pays, principalement en Afrique. Parmi elles, on compte 47 (64%) flambees nouvelles, dans 30 (77%) des 39 pays. Trois pays ont signale des flambees dues aux PVDVc de type 1 (PVDVcl), 39 pays ont notifie des flambees de PVDVc de type 2 (PVDVc2) et 2 pays ont fait etat d'une cocirculation de PVDVcl et de PVDVc2. Les flambees de PVDVc2 signalees dans 39 pays etaient au nombre de 70. Dans 15 pays, la transmission des PVDVc a dure >1 an, se poursuivant en 2024. Au Nigeria et en Somalie, pays dont certaines zones sont en proie a des problemes de securite, la transmission persistante des PVDVc2 s'est etendue aux pays voisins. La mise en oeuvre tardive des activites de riposte et la faible qualite des campagnes ont conduit a une propagation internationale supplementaire. Les flambees epidemiques de PVDVc peuvent etre endiguees rapidement si les pays deploient en temps utile les ressources necessaires a la mise en oeuvre d'une riposte rapide et de qualite une fois que l'epidemie est confirmee. Pour interrompre la transmission des PVDVc, il est essentiel d'accroitre l'immunite de la population grace a la vaccination, ce qui suppose de surmonter les obstacles qui entravent la vaccination des enfants., Introduction Live, attenuated oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV) induces long-term protection against paralytic disease and limits virus shedding in vaccinated people who are infected. (1) Circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses (cVDPVs) (2) occur [...]

Background: Chronic exposure to low-level environmental lead (Pb) causes several health effects in humans. Its biomonitoring by non-invasive biomarkers is imperative to identify Pb exposure in the occupationally unexposed general public. Objective: To quantify urinary lead (U-Pb) and urinary δ-Aminolevulinic acid (ALA) in the general population of West Bengal, India, and identify the impact of routine life activities (smoking habit, traveling, and cooking activities) and sociodemographic factors on U-Pb and U-ALA levels. Method: Urine samples (N = 258) were obtained from urban and rural area residents from November 2021 to February 2022. U-Pb and U-ALA were quantified by atomic absorption (283 nm) and UV-spectrometer (553 nm). A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Results: About 8% of rural residents, 15% of urban residential area residents, and 35% of urban commercial area residents had U-ALA levels > 5 mg/L permissible limit. Low-income-group (LIG) individuals had two times higher ALA than the middle-income group. ALA was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in smoker traveler males, traveler females, and females who had passive exposure to tobacco smoke. U-Pb was within permissible limits in total study individuals. Conclusion: Pb exposure was higher in urban than rural residents; furthermore, urban commercial residents had Pb exposure higher than urban residential residents. Results are evident that vehicular emissions and tobacco smoke were potential contributors to environmental Pb exposure among study participants. The present work provides data on Pb body burden among the residents of West Bengal that might be useful for policymakers and in pollution abatement strategies too. Keywords: Environmental lead, general public, smoker and traveler, urinary delta-aminolevulinic acid, urinary lead, Author(s): Anupa Yadav [1,2]; Aniruddha Mukhopadhayay [2]; Amit Chakrabarti [1]; Asim Saha [1]; Pritha Bhattacharjee (corresponding author) [2] INTRODUCTION Lead is occupationally and environmentally highly toxic metal for human beings [...]

When the pandemic started, I was ready to jump in. American Indians and Alaska Natives were being diagnosed with COVID-19 at rates 3.5 times higher than non-Hispanic white persons. As [...]

Since its launch in 1988, the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) has made substantial progress towards eradication of wild poliovirus (WPV), including eradicating 2 of the 3 serotypes and reducing the number of countries with ongoing endemic transmission of WPV type 1 (WPV1) to Afghanistan and Pakistan. The two countries are considered a single epidemiological block. Despite the occurrence of only a single confirmed WPV1 case during the first half of 2023, Pakistan experienced widespread circulation of WPV1 during the subsequent 12 months, specifically in the historical reservoirs of the cities of Quetta, Karachi and Peshawar. As of 30 June 2024, 8 WPV1 cases had been reported in Pakistan, as compared with 6 reported during all of 2023. These cases, and >300 WPV1-positive environmental surveillance (sewage) samples reported during 2023-2024, indicate that Pakistan is not on track to interrupt WPV1 transmission. The country's complex sociopolitical and security environment continues to pose formidable challenges to poliovirus elimination. To interrupt WPV1 transmission, sustained political commitment to polio eradication, including increased accountability at all levels is necessary. Systematic tracking and vaccination of children who are continually missed during polio vaccination activities should be enhanced by better addressing operational issues and the underlying reasons for community resistance to vaccination and vaccine hesitancy. Depuis le lancement de l'Initiative mondiale pour l'eradication de la poliomyelite (IMEP) en 1988, des progres substantiels ont ete accomplis vers l'eradication des poliovirus sauvage (PVS). Ainsi, 2 des 3 serotypes sont desormais eradiques et seuls l'Afghanistan et le Pakistan enregistrent encore une transmission endemique du PVS de type 1 (PVS1). Ces deux pays forment un bloc epidemiologique unique. Bien qu'ayant observe un seul cas confirme de poliomyelite due au PVS1 au premier semestre 2023, le Pakistan a connu une circulation a grande echelle du PVS1 au cours des 12 mois suivants, en particulier dans les villes de Quetta, Karachi et Peshawar, qui constituent des reservoirs traditionnels du virus. Au 30 juin 2024, 8 cas de PVS1 avaient ete signales au Pakistan depuis le debut de l'annee, contre 6 notifies sur l'ensemble de l'annee 2023. Ces cas, ainsi que les >300 echantillons de surveillance environnementale (eaux usees) positifs pour le PVS1 qui ont ete recenses en 20232024, indiquent que le Pakistan n'est pas en voie d'interrompre la transmission du PVS1. Le contexte sociopolitique et securitaire complexe du pays demeure un obstacle majeur a l'elimination des poliovirus. Pour interrompre la transmission du PVS1, un engagement politique durable en faveur de l'eradication de la poliomyelite, assorti d'une responsabilisation accrue a tous les niveaux, est indispensable. Des efforts plus soutenus doivent etre deployes pour suivre et vacciner de maniere systematique les enfants qui continuent d'echapper aux activites de vaccination antipoliomyelitique, ce qui implique d'apporter de meilleures solutions aux problemes operationnels existants, ainsi qu'aux facteurs qui sous-tendent la reticence a la vaccination et la resistance des communautes., Introduction Although the GPEI has achieved substantial progress since its establishment in 1988, the goal of polio eradication has remained elusive. Indigenous WPV1 circulation has never been interrupted in Pakistan, [...]

On December 3, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed a vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA) isolate from a resident of North Carolina, USA. That isolate represented the [...]

Editor's Note: The National Environmental Health Association strives to provide up-to-date and relevant information on environmental health and to build partnerships in the profession. In pursuit of these goals, we [...]

Tetanus remains a significant cause of mortality among undervaccinated mothers and their infants after unhygienic deliveries, especially in low-income countries. The strategies of the maternal and neonatal tetanus elimination (MNTE) initiative, which targets 59 priority countries, include strengthening antenatal vaccination of pregnant women with tetanus toxoid-containing vaccines (TTCVs), conducting TTCV supplementary immunization activities (SIAs) for women of reproductive age in high-risk districts, optimizing access to skilled birth attendants (SBAs) to ensure clean deliveries and clean umbilical cord care practices and identifying and investigating suspected cases of neonatal tetanus (NT). This report updates a previous report and describes progress towards achieving MNTE during 2000-2022. By December 2022, 47 (80%) of 59 priority countries were validated as having achieved MNTE. In 2022, of the 50 countries that reported coverage with [greater than or equal to]2 doses of TTCV (TTCV2+) among pregnant women, 16 (32%) reported coverage of [greater than or equal to]80%; and, of the 47 validated countries, 26 (55%) reported that [greater than or equal to]70% of births were assisted by SBAs. The number of NT cases reported worldwide decreased by 89%, from 17 935 in 2000 to 1995 in 2021, and the estimated number of deaths due to NT decreased by 84%, from 46 898 to 7719. Global disruption of routine vaccination due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, however, slowed progress. Since 2020, the reported number of NT cases has increased in 18 (31%) priority countries. To achieve and sustain global elimination, MNTE strategies should be integrated into countries' national immunization programmes. Le tetanos demeure une cause importante de mortalite chez les meres sous-vaccinees et leurs nourrissons apres des accouchements ne respectant pas les regles d'hygiene, en particulier dans les pays a faible revenu. Les strategies de l'initiative pour l'elimination du tetanos maternel et neonatal, qui cible 59 pays prioritaires, consistent a renforcer la vaccination prenatale des femmes enceintes contre le tetanos, a mener des activites de vaccination supplementaire (AVS) avec le vaccin antitetanique pour les femmes en age de procreer dans les districts a haut risque, a optimiser l'acces a des professionnels qualifies pour assister les parturientes afin de garantir des accouchements et des soins du cordon ombilical conformes aux regles d'hygiene, et a identifier les cas suspects de tetanos neonatal et mener des enquetes sur ces cas. Le present rapport actualise les informations fournies dans le rapport precedent et decrit les progres accomplis vers l'elimination du tetanos maternel et neonatal (TMN) au cours de la periode 2000-2022. En decembre 2022, l'elimination du TMN avait ete validee dans 47/59 (80%) pays prioritaires. En 2022, 16/50 (32%) pays qui avaient administre [greater than or equal to]2 doses de vaccin antitetanique aux femmes enceintes ont rapporte une couverture [greater than or equal to]80%; sur les 47 pays oU l'elimination du TMN a ete validee, 26 (55%) ont indique que [greater than or equal to]70% des accouchements avaient ete assistes par un professionnel qualifie. Entre 2000 et 2021, le nombre de cas de tetanos neonatal notifies dans le monde a diminue de 89%, passant de 17 935 a 1995, et le nombre estime de deces dus au tetanos neonatal a diminue de 84%, passant de 46 898 a 7719. Mais la pandemie de maladie a coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19), qui a perturbe les activites de vaccination systematique a l'echelle mondiale, a ralenti cette progression. Depuis 2020, le nombre de cas de tetanos neonatal notifies a augmente dans 18 (31%) pays prioritaires. Pour realiser et maintenir l'elimination a l'echelle mondiale, les strategies d'elimination du TMN doivent etre integrees dans les programmes nationaux de vaccination des pays prioritaires., Introduction Maternal and neonatal tetanus (1) remains a substantial cause of mortality among undervaccinated mothers and their infants after unhygienic delivery, especially in low-income countries. (2) In 1989, the World [...]

In February 2020, California Governor Gavin Newsom's proposed budget recommended suspending the state-mandated physical fitness test (Fitness Gram*) for three years due to concerns over bullying and test discrimination against students who identify as gender non-binary and students with disabilities. The purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of California physical educators' perceptions of the state-mandated physical fitness assessment. Snowball sampling was used to recruit 1,082 participants who completed a survey with quantitative and open-ended questions. Analysis of the open-ended questions indicated the two main themes were 'how to improve fitness testing' and 'challenges in fitness testing.' It is imperative to consider the needs of all students, including those who identify as gender non-binary or have a disability, and ensure physical fitness testing is conducted in a, Introduction The FitnessGram[R] was developed by The Cooper Institute and is used to identify student progress related to the Healthy Fitness Zone[R]. It is estimated that FitnessGram[R] is used by [...]

High-quality data from surveillance of vaccine-preventable disease (VPD) are critical for timely detection of and response to outbreaks. In 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa (AFRO) began a change from Epi Info, a statistical software package developed by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), with limited capability to integrate with other information systems, affecting reporting timeliness and data use, to the District Health Information Software 2 (DHIS2), a free, open-source software platform for electronic aggregate Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) and case-based surveillance reporting. A national reporting system was introduced to allow countries to adopt this system. Regionally, the Epi Info database will be replaced by a DHIS2 regional data platform. This report describes phased implementation from 2019 to the present. Phase 1 (2019-2021) involved developing IDSR aggregate and case-based surveillance packages and pilot studies in Mali, Rwanda and Togo. Phase 2 (2022) included extending national implementation to 27 countries and establishing the WHO AFRO DHIS2 regional data platform. Phase 3 (from 2023 onwards) comprised building local capacity and support for national reporting to the regional platform. By February 2024, 8 of 47 AFRO countries had adopted both the aggregate IDSR and case-based surveillance packages, and 2 had successfully transferred VPD surveillance data to the AFRO regional platform. The challenges included limited human and financial resources, establishment of data-sharing and governance agreements, technical support for data transfer, and building local capacity to report to the regional platform. Transition to DHIS2 will ensure efficient data transmission to strengthen detection and response of VPD and public health emergencies through greater system integration and interoperability. Il est essentiel de disposer de donnees de surveillance de qualite sur les maladies a prevention vaccinale (MPV) pour detecter rapidement les flambees epidemiques et y riposter. En 2019, le Bureau regional de l'Organisation mondiale de la Sante (OMS) pour l'Afrique a commence a remplacer Epi Info, un progiciel statistique developpe par les Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) des Etats-Unis, s'adaptant difficilement a d'autres systemes d'information et ne permettant pas de bien tenir les delais ou de partager les donnees de maniere optimale, par le logiciel d'information sanitaire de district DHIS2 (District Health Information Software 2), une plateforme logicielle libre et gratuite pour les donnees de surveillance integree des maladies et la riposte et les donnees de surveillance basee sur l'identification des cas. Un systeme de notification au niveau national a ete mis en place, offrant aux pays la possibilite d'adopter ce nouveau systeme. Au niveau regional, la base de donnees Epi Info sera remplacee par une plateforme de donnees DHIS2 regionale. Le present rapport decrit la mise en oeuvre progressive de cette plateforme de 2019 a aujourd'hui. La phase 1 (2019-2021) a consiste a elaborer des modules pour les donnees agregees de surveillance integree des maladies et la riposte et de surveillance basee sur les cas; des essais pilotes ont ete menes au Mali, au Rwanda et au Togo. La phase 2 (2022) a vu l'extension de la mise en oeuvre au niveau national a 27 pays et la mise en place de la plateforme de donnees regionale DHIS2 du Bureau regional de l'OMS pour l'Afrique. Les activites de la phase 3 (a partir de 2023) ont porte sur le renforcement des capacites locales et l'appui aux pays pour la transmission des donnees nationales a la plateforme regionale. Les difficultes recensees concernaient le manque de ressources humaines et financieres, la necessite d'etablir des accords de partage et de gouvernance des donnees, l'appui technique pour le transfert des donnees et le renforcement des capacites locales pour la transmission des donnees a la plateforme regionale. En fevrier 2024, 8 pays parmi les 47 pays de la Region africaine de l'OMS avaient adopte les modules pour la surveillance integree des maladies et la riposte et pour la surveillance basee sur les cas, et 2 avaient transfere avec succes leurs donnees de surveillance sur les MPV vers la plateforme regionale. La transition vers la plateforme DHIS2 favorisera une transmission efficace des donnees pour renforcer la detection des MPV et des urgences de sante publique et la riposte a ces evenements grace a une meilleure integration et interoperabilite des systemes., Introduction VPD surveillance is critical to public health, as it provides data for timely detection of and response to VPD cases and outbreaks. High-quality, timely data are necessary to guide [...]

Poliomyelitis (polio) was first targeted for eradication in 1988. Global efforts have led to eradication of 2 of the 3 wild poliovirus (WPV) serotypes (types 2 and 3), and only WPV type 1 (WPV1) remains endemic and only in Afghanistan and Pakistan. This report describes global polio immunization, surveillance activities and poliovirus epidemiology during January 2022-December 2023. Data are current as of 10 April 2024. In 2023, Afghanistan and Pakistan identified 12 WPV1 polio cases, as compared with 22 in 2022. WPV1 transmission was detected by systematic testing for poliovirus in sewage samples (environmental surveillance, ES) in 13 provinces in Afghanistan and Pakistan in 2021 and in 7 in 2022. The number of polio cases caused by circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV) (circulating vaccine virus strains that have reverted to neurovirulence) decreased from 881 in 2022 to 524 in 2023; cVDPV outbreaks (defined as either a cVDPV case with evidence of circulation or at least 2 positive ES isolates) occurred in 32 countries in 2023, including 8 that had not experienced a cVDPV outbreak in 2022. Despite reductions in the number of cases of paralytic polio since 2022, cVDPVs and WPV1 (in countries with endemic transmission) were more widespread in 2023. Renewed efforts to vaccinate children who are persistently missed in countries with endemic WPV1 transmission, strengthening of routine immunization (RI) programmes in high-risk countries and providing more effective cVDPV outbreak response are necessary to achieve further progress towards global polio eradication. L'objectif d'eradiquer la poliomyelite a ete formule pour la premiere fois en 1988. Des efforts a l'echelle mondiale ont conduit a l'eradication de 2 des 3 serotypes (types 2 et 3) de poliovirus sauvage (PVS), et seul le PVS de type 1 (PVS1) demeure endemique dans 2 pays, l'Afghanistan et le Pakistan. Le present rapport decrit la vaccination contre la poliomyelite, les activites de surveillance et l'epidemiologie des poliovirus dans le monde entre janvier 2022 et decembre 2023. Il s'appuie sur des donnees recueillies jusqu'au 10 avril 2024. En 2023, l'Afghanistan et le Pakistan ont identifie 12 cas de PVS1, contre 22 en 2022. La surveillance environnementale, qui consiste a analyser de maniere systematique des echantillons d'eaux usees a la recherche de poliovirus, a detecte une transmission de PVS1 dans 13 provinces d'Afghanistan et du Pakistan en 2021 et dans 7 provinces en 2022. Le nombre de cas de poliomyelite dus aux poliovirus circulants derives d'une souche vaccinale (PVDVc) (souches de virus vaccinaux circulants qui ont retrouve leur neurovirulence) est passe de 881 en 2022 a 524 en 2023; des flambees epidemiques de PVDVc (definies comme un cas de PVDVc associe a une circulation averee du virus ou comme au moins 2 isolats positifs issus de la surveillance environnementale) sont survenues dans 32 pays en 2023, parmi lesquels 8 qui n'avaient pas connu de flambee de PVDVc en 2022. Malgre la reduction du nombre de cas de poliomyelite paralytique depuis 2022, les PVDVc et le PVS1 ont davantage circule en 2023 dans les pays oU la transmission est endemique. Pour continuer a progresser vers l'eradication mondiale de la poliomyelite, il est necessaire de redoubler d'efforts pour vacciner les enfants qui echappent encore a la vaccination dans les pays oU la transmission du PVS1 est endemique, en renforcant les programmes de vaccination systematique dans les pays a haut risque et en assurant une riposte plus efficace aux flambees de PVDVc., Introduction Since establishment of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) in 1988, WPV types 2 and 3 have been eradicated, and WPV1 remains endemic only in Afghanistan and Pakistan. In [...]

BACKGROUND: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, new evidence-based strategies have emerged for reducing transmission of respiratory infections through management of indoor air. OBJECTIVES: This paper reviews critical advances that could reduce the burden of disease from inhaled pathogens and describes challenges in their implementation. DISCUSSION: Proven strategies include assuring sufficient ventilation, air cleaning by filtration, and air disinfection by germicidal ultraviolet (UV) light. Layered intervention strategies are needed to maximize risk reduction. Case studies demonstrate how to implement these tools while also revealing barriers to implementation. Future needs include standards designed with infection resilience and equity in mind, buildings optimized for infection resilience among other drivers, new approaches and technologies to improve ventilation, scientific consensus on the amount of ventilation needed to achieve a desired level of risk, methods for evaluating new air-cleaning technologies, studies of their long-term health effects, workforce training on ventilation systems, easier access to federal funds, demonstration projects in schools, and communication with the public about the importance of indoor air quality and actions people can take to improve it. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP13878, Introduction The status of the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic as a public health emergency ended in May 2023, more than 3 y after the first cases were reported in Wuhan, [...]

Editor's Note: The National Environmental Health Association strives to provide up-to-date and relevant information on environmental health and to build partnerships in the profession. In pursuit of these goals, we [...]

Background: Reference charts are widely used in healthcare as a screening tool. This study aimed to produce reference growth charts for school children from West Malaysia in comparison with the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) chart.Methods: A total of 14,360 school children ranging from 7 to 17 years old from six states in West Malaysia were collected. A two-stage stratified random sampling technique was used to recruit the subjects. Curves were adjusted using Cole's LMS method. The LOWESS method was used to smooth the data.Results: The means and standard deviations for height and weight for both genders are presented. The results showed good agreement with growth patterns in other countries, i.e., males tend to be taller and heavier than females for most age groups. Height and weight of females reached a plateau at 17 years of age; however, males were still growing at this age. The growth charts for West Malaysian school children were compared with the CDC 2000 growth charts for school children in the United States.Conclusion: The height and weight for males and females at the start of school-going ages were almost similar. The comparison between the growth charts from this study and the CDC 2000 growth charts indicated that the growth patterns of West Malaysian school children have improved, although the height and weight of American school children were higher than those for West Malaysian school children.

Ebola virus disease (Ebola) is a rare but severe illness in humans, with an average case fatality rate of approximately 50%. There are currently 2 licensed vaccines against Orthoebolavirus zairense, the virus that causes Ebola: the 1-dose rVSV[DELTA]G-ZEBOV-GP (ERVEBO) and the 2-dose regimen of Ad26.ZEBOV and MVA-BN-Filo (Zabdeno/Mvabea). The Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE) recommends use of 1-dose ERVEBO during Ebola outbreaks, and, in 2021, a global stockpile of ERVEBO was established to ensure equitable, timely, targeted access to vaccine doses for future Ebola outbreaks. This report describes the use of Ebola vaccines and the role of the stockpile developed and managed by the International Coordinating Group (ICG) on vaccine provision during 2021-2023. A total of 145 690 doses have been shipped from the ICG stockpile since 2021; however, because there have been few outbreaks since 2021, which were rapidly contained, most doses (139 120; 95%) shipped from the stockpile have been repurposed for preventive vaccination of high-risk groups, compared to outbreak response (6570; 5%). Ensuring the availability of sufficient Ebola vaccine doses for emergency outbreak response remains the priority for the ICG stockpile; nonetheless, investments, advocacy and additional research to guide preventive vaccination are crucial for health system preparedness and resilience. La maladie a virus Ebola (MVE) est une maladie rare mais grave chez l'etre humain, avec un taux de letalite moyen avoisinant 50%. Il existe actuellement 2 vaccins homologues contre Orthoebolavirus zairense, le virus responsable de la MVE: le vaccin a 1 dose rVSV[DELTA]G-ZEBOV-GP (ERVEBO) et le vaccin a 2 doses Ad26.ZEBOV et MVA-BN-Filo (Zabdeno/Mvabea). Le Groupe strategique consultatif d'experts sur la vaccination (SAGE) recommande l'administration d'une dose de vaccin ERVEBO pendant les flambees epidemiques de MVE; en 2021, un stock mondial de vaccins ERVEBO a ete constitue pour garantir un acces equitable, rapide et cible aux doses de vaccin pour les futures flambees de MVE. Le present rapport decrit l'utilisation des vaccins contre le virus Ebola et le role du stock constitue et gere par le Groupe international de coordination pour l'approvisionnement en vaccins (GIC) au cours de la periode 20212023. Au total, 145 690 doses ont ete expediees a partir du stock du GIC depuis 2021. Toutefois, du fait que les flambees epidemiques depuis 2021 ont ete limitees et rapidement jugulees, la plupart des doses (139 120; 95%) expediees a partir du stock du GIC ont ete reaffectees a la vaccination preventive de groupes a haut risque, si l'on compare avec la riposte aux flambees (6570; 5%). Assurer la disponibilite d'un nombre suffisant de doses de vaccin contre le virus Ebola pour la riposte d'urgence aux flambees epidemiques reste la priorite du GIC; neanmoins, les investissements, le plaidoyer et les travaux de recherche supplementaires pour guider la vaccination preventive sont cruciaux pour la preparation et la resilience des systemes de sante., Introduction O. zairense, the virus responsible for Ebola, has caused the largest filovirus outbreaks worldwide; the average Ebola case fatality rate is approximately 50%. (1) Currently, 2 licensed vaccines are [...]

Executive summary The purpose of the research overseen by the WHO Advisory Committee on Variola Virus Research, as mandated by the World Health Assembly, (1) is to develop medical countermeasures [...]

The reliable and timely detection of poliovirus infection through surveillance for acute flaccid paralysis (AFP), supplemented by environmental surveillance (ES) of sewage samples, is a critical component of the polio eradication programme. Since 1988, the number of polio cases caused by wild poliovirus (WPV) has decreased by >99.9%, and eradication of WPV serotypes 2 and 3 has been certified; only serotype 1 (WPV1) continues to circulate and transmission remains endemic in Afghanistan and Pakistan. In this surveillance update, we evaluated indicators of AFP in surveillance, ES for polioviruses and data on the performance of the Global Polio Laboratory Network (GPLN) provided by 28 priority countries for the programme during 2022-2023. No WPV1 cases have been detected outside those countries since August 2022, when importation into Malawi and Mozambique resulted in an outbreak during 2021-2022. During 2022-2023, 20 of 28 priority countries (71.4%) met national AFP surveillance indicator targets, and the number of ES sites increased. Low national rates of reported AFP cases in priority countries in 2023 might have been due to lags in surveillance reporting; substantial national and subnational AFP surveillance gaps persist. Maintaining high-quality surveillance is critical to achieving the goal of global polio eradication. Monitoring surveillance indicators is important to identifying gaps and guiding surveillance-strengthening activities, particularly in countries at high risk for poliovirus circulation. La detection fiable et rapide de l'infection a poliovirus au moyen de la surveillance de la paralysie flasque aigue (PFA), completee par une surveillance des echantillons d'eaux usees, est un element essentiel du programme d'eradication de la poliomyelite. Depuis 1988, le nombre de cas de poliomyelite dus au poliovirus sauvage (PVS) a diminue de >99,9% et l'eradication des serotypes 2 et 3 du PVS a ete certifiee; seul le serotype 1 du poliovirus sauvage (PVS1) continue de circuler et la transmission demeure endemique en Afghanistan et au Pakistan. Dans ce rapport faisant le point sur la surveillance, nous evaluons les indicateurs de la PFA a des fins de surveillance pour la recherche des poliovirus et les donnees relatives aux performances du Reseau mondial de laboratoires pour la poliomyelite (RMLP) communiquees par les 28 pays prioritaires pour le programme en 2022-2023. Aucun cas du au PVS1 n'a ete detecte en dehors de ces pays depuis aout 2022, apres une flambee epidemique en 2021-2022 due a l'importation du virus au Malawi et au Mozambique. En 2022-2023, 20 des 28 pays prioritaires (71,4 %) ont atteint les cibles des indicateurs de surveillance de la PFA, et le nombre de sites de surveillance environnementale a augmente. Le faible nombre de cas de PFA signales dans les pays prioritaires en 2023 pourrait etre du a des retards dans la communication des donnees issues de la surveillance; d'importantes lacunes en matiere de surveillance de la PFA a l'echelle nationale et infranationale persistent. Il est essentiel de maintenir une surveillance de qualite afin d'atteindre l'eradication de la poliomyelite a l'echelle mondiale. Un suivi des indicateurs de surveillance est egalement important pour identifier les lacunes et orienter les activites de surveillance, particulierement dans les pays oU il existe un risque eleve de circulation du poliovirus., Introduction Since the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) was established in 1988, the number of WPV cases has decreased by >99.9%, and WPV serotypes 2 and 3 have been declared [...]

Until recently, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), located in an mpox-endemic region, has had the highest global burden of mpox (1). Mpox is caused by the monkeypox virus [...]