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Implications of the nOPV2 on the global polio scenario

Content Editor: Dr. Swathi Shenoy

April 18, 2024 at 2:00:00 PM

Outbreak, Polio virus, Vaccine

Content Editor: Dr. Swathi Shenoy
  • A recent review discussed the implications of the nOPV vaccine on the global polio condition.

  • The nOPV2 was authorized for emergency use in 2021 by the WHO as a strategy to reduce cVDPV outbreaks.

  • The nOPV vaccine is genetically more stable and has a lower risk of reverting to neurovirulent strains.

  • Following the vaccine's launch, 1 billion doses have been given, and the slope of the cVDPV outbreak has fallen.

  • Currently, 35 countries have already used the new vaccine, 17 more have approved its use in case of need, and a further 20 have started discussions and preparations should they require it.

  • Following its successful implementation, the vaccine has been transitioned from the WHO emergency use listing to WHO prequalification.

  • However, challenges regarding optimization of the coverage and outbreak response still hamper polio eradication.

  • Currently, the vaccine is being manufactured by a single company, and production expansion can help mitigate the challenges.

  • Learning from the success of nOPV2, the process of developing nOPV for the other strains has begun.

  •  However, the ultimate strategy would be the replacement of all oral poliovirus vaccines with the inactivated polio vaccine under the immunization programme.

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