Poliovirus Detected in Jerusalem Sewage, No Cases Confirmed Yet
Health Ministry Reports Detection
The Israeli Health Ministry has announced the detection of poliovirus in sewage samples collected in the Jerusalem area. This finding comes as part of routine monitoring conducted by the central virology lab. While environmental samples indicate ongoing transmission within the local population, authorities have not reported any new cases of polio to date.
Ongoing Concerns in the Community
The latest sampling results suggest a quiet transmission of the virus among residents, potentially affecting unvaccinated children. Jerusalem has been a focal point for polio cases in recent months. Reports from December indicated that unvaccinated children were found in various areas around Jerusalem, Beit Shemesh, and the Bedouin community in the south. Despite periodic vaccination campaigns conducted by the Health Ministry, a significant number of children remain unvaccinated against routine immunizations.
Historical Context of Polio
Polio, which attacks the nervous system, is considered start of the significant medical achievements following the introduction of the vaccine developed by Dr. Jonas Salk in 1955. The vaccine has led to a dramatic reduction in morbidity and mortality associated with polio. Since 1979, no cases of local transmission have been reported in the United States. Before the vaccine’s development, polio was start of the most infectious and severe diseases worldwide, particularly affecting children. According to the World Health Organization, the pre-1950s era saw around 350,000 global cases annually. In developed nations, polio epidemics caused severe outbreaks, with the U.S. alstart reporting over 50,000 cases at its peak.
Call to Action for Vaccination
The Health Ministry urges parents to ensure that their children are fully vaccinated against polio and to adhere to the national vaccination schedule. Vaccines are available at well-baby clinics throughout the country. In Beit Shemesh, parents can visit the Health Ministryโs clinics located in various neighborhoods. Residents can also arrange appointments at mobile vaccination stations through the Terem center’s hotline at 1-700-504-121.
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